Shubman Gill Absent for Second Test; Rishabh Pant to Lead India

Post by : Mara Rahim

The Indian cricket team faces a significant challenge in the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, with star opener Shubman Gill missing due to a neck injury sustained during the first Test in Kolkata. At 26, Gill suffered the injury while batting on Day 2, leading to his retirement from the match and a trip to a Kolkata hospital for medical scans. Although discharged and traveling with the squad, his recovery has not proceeded enough for him to participate.

In his absence, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant will assume the role of captain. Renowned for his aggressive playing style and adept leadership, Pant is stepping into a pivotal must-win match situation. Sai Sudharsan, the left-handed batter, is set to fill Gill's spot in the playing XI, which aims to bolster the team's top order. At 24, Sudharsan made his Test debut last June in England, accumulating 273 runs over five Tests with an average of 30.33. The management believes Sudharsan's skill set aligns well with the high-stakes environment of this crucial match.

The BCCI has reported positive signs in Gill's recovery, as he continues his rehabilitation, but the demands of a five-day match pose too great a risk for his early return. He may require an additional week to ten days for full recovery, which casts doubt on his availability for the upcoming ODI series starting November 30 in Ranchi. A potential return for the T20 matches remains hopeful, although caution is advised to prevent worsening the injury.

Before heading to Assam, the Indian squad—including Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel, Akash Deep, Ravindra Jadeja, and Devdutt Padikkal—attended an optional training session at Eden Gardens. Additionally, Nitish Kumar Reddy has been called up to adapt to the Guwahati pitch, known for its tendency to provide turn and bounce.

This second Test in Guwahati is also notable as the first Test match at this venue. The match is scheduled to begin daily at 9 a.m., with a unique twist: the tea break will occur before lunch, setting a historic precedent in Test cricket. With India trailing 0-1 in the series, Pant's leadership and the performance of a Gill-less squad will be vital in equalizing the series, as fans and analysts remain keenly focused on how the newer players respond to this defining moment.