Team India skipper Shubman Gill’s participation for the remainder of the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata is doubtful after he was hospitalized due to a neck spasm.
According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the 26-year-old was taken to a private hospital and was seen wearing a neck brace, accompanied by a team doctor. The incident occurred when Gill walked out to bat in the 35th over of the innings on Day 2, following Washington Sundar’s dismissal. The young cricketer felt discomfort in his neck after sweeping Simon Harmer for a boundary and had to walk off the field.
The BCCI issued the following statement regarding Gill’s injury:
“Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team.”
Ahead of the day’s play, the Punjab-born batter was seen by broadcasters performing a series of neck exercises in front of the coaching staff and medical team. This injury comes at a time when Gill’s workload management is under close scrutiny, given his continuous participation across all formats of cricket.
### Rishabh Pant Leads in Gill’s Absence
With Gill sidelined, vice-captain Rishabh Pant took charge of Team India on Day 2. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batter led the home side admirably, reducing South Africa to 93/7. The visitors currently hold a slender lead of 63 runs heading into Day 3.
Ravindra Jadeja exploited the tricky batting conditions perfectly, delivering impressive bowling figures of 13-3-29-4. Kuldeep Yadav also picked up two crucial wickets, while left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed one, leaving South Africa struggling.
Visiting captain Temba Bavuma is still at the crease, batting on 29, but is left with only tailenders as partners. Bavuma will need to face as many deliveries as possible to set a challenging target for India.
### Match Update
Team India were bowled out for 189 in their first innings, giving them a slender 30-run lead over South Africa.
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill’s recovery and whether he can return to lead the team in this crucial Test.
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