Shubman Gill Ruled Out of 2nd Test, Heads to Mumbai for Scan

Shubman Gill has been officially ruled out of the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati after failing to recover fully from the neck spasm he suffered during the first Test in Kolkata. The BCCI confirmed on Friday that the India captain has been released from the squad and has flown to Mumbai to consult a specialist for further assessment and long-term injury management.

Gill did not participate in training on Thursday and was due for a final fitness test on Friday. However, the medical team advised against taking the field, citing the risk of aggravating the injury. As a result, Rishabh Pant will lead India in the second Test beginning November 22.

The BCCI said in its statement:
“Shubman Gill, who suffered a neck injury during the first Test, has been ruled out of the second Test. He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. He travelled to Guwahati on 19 November but is not fully fit to feature in the match and will head to Mumbai for further assessment.”

Gill’s Injury Timeline

Gill had retired hurt on Day 2 in Kolkata after facing just three deliveries. He was taken to a local hospital for scans and did not return to bat. On the morning of Day 3, the BCCI confirmed he would take no further part in the Test. India then collapsed to 93 all out while chasing 124, losing by 30 runs.

Notably, Gill had missed a Test in October 2024 due to a similar neck issue, raising concerns about recurrence.

Selection Puzzle: Too Many Left-Handers

India’s immediate challenge is to find a balanced replacement. With six left-handers already featuring in the Kolkata XI and both frontrunners Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal batting left-handed, the team risks becoming overly left-heavy — something South Africa exploited through off-spinner Simon Harmer, who took Player of the Match honours.

Sai Sudharsan is expected to open in Gill’s absence.
Nitish Reddy may come in for Axar Patel to restore right-left balance.

Team Management Prioritising Long-Term Fitness

Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stressed that India will not gamble with their captain’s health.

“He is recovering well, but unless the medical team is sure the spasm won’t recur, he won’t play. Long-term fitness is more important,” Kotak said.

He added that India’s bench strength provides confidence:
“If he misses out, we have quality replacements. Someone might even grab the chance and score big.”

With India trailing 1–0 in the series, Gill’s absence adds significant pressure on the team to avoid conceding a home Test series.