Shubman Gill Retires Hurt After Freak Neck Injury at Eden Gardens, Fitness Doubt Looms
A worrying moment unfolded for Indian cricket fans on Day 2 of the 1st Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens , Kolkata, when captain Shubman Gill was forced to leave the field due to a freak neck injury. The incident took place early on Saturday morning, sending concern across the Indian dressing room and among spectators as the 25-year-old skipper walked off holding his neck in visible discomfort.
Gill, who recently took over the leadership reins of the Indian Test and ODI teams, had just arrived at the crease when the issue surfaced. After facing only three balls, he signalled to the physio for assistance and eventually retired hurt, leaving questions over his fitness and availability for the remainder of the match.
Eyewitnesses noted that Gill struggled to rotate his neck freely, grimacing in pain between deliveries. The on-field physiotherapist was called in immediately, but after a brief assessment, the skipper appeared unable to continue and was escorted off the field.
The Indian team management confirmed that Gill was experiencing neck stiffness, though a detailed medical update was awaited as of Saturday afternoon. It remains uncertain whether he will return to bat in the second innings or take part in the remainder of the Test.
Sources from the Indian camp indicated that the medical staff is “monitoring his condition closely” and that he will undergo scans if the stiffness persists. “It appears to be a muscle spasm due to sudden movement or fatigue, but we’ll have a clearer picture after further evaluation,” a team source told reporters.
“Shubman Gill is a fantastic batter and a perfect captain. He captained India remarkably in England. As a young boy, going to England and captaining there is not easy. He’s an all-format player and will continue to do well for India,” Ganguly had said.
Ganguly’s remarks reflected the widespread confidence in Gill’s leadership, especially after his stellar performances both as a batsman and captain in recent series.
Gill’s calm demeanour, tactical awareness, and aggressive batting style have drawn comparisons to some of India’s great captains. His ability to adapt across formats has also positioned him as one of the key pillars of Indian cricket’s next generation.
His focus on building partnerships, backing young bowlers, and maintaining team composure under pressure has helped India transition smoothly after the retirement of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Test setup.
Given that India’s next Test is scheduled just days after this match, the medical team’s decision on Gill’s participation will be crucial.
For now, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja has taken over on-field duties, ensuring stability and focus among the players as the team continues its campaign against South Africa.
Gill, who recently took over the leadership reins of the Indian Test and ODI teams, had just arrived at the crease when the issue surfaced. After facing only three balls, he signalled to the physio for assistance and eventually retired hurt, leaving questions over his fitness and availability for the remainder of the match.
The Incident — Gill’s Sudden Exit
The injury occurred shortly after Washington Sundar’s dismissal in the 35th over of India’s innings. As Gill walked out to bat, the crowd at Eden Gardens erupted with cheers for their young captain. However, those cheers quickly turned into concern as he began showing signs of discomfort in his neck after facing just a few deliveries.Eyewitnesses noted that Gill struggled to rotate his neck freely, grimacing in pain between deliveries. The on-field physiotherapist was called in immediately, but after a brief assessment, the skipper appeared unable to continue and was escorted off the field.
The Indian team management confirmed that Gill was experiencing neck stiffness, though a detailed medical update was awaited as of Saturday afternoon. It remains uncertain whether he will return to bat in the second innings or take part in the remainder of the Test.
Early Reactions and Team India’s Response
The unexpected injury came as a setback for Team India, who had been in a commanding position during the morning session. Players and fans alike expressed visible concern as their captain walked off the field with physios by his side.Sources from the Indian camp indicated that the medical staff is “monitoring his condition closely” and that he will undergo scans if the stiffness persists. “It appears to be a muscle spasm due to sudden movement or fatigue, but we’ll have a clearer picture after further evaluation,” a team source told reporters.
Sourav Ganguly’s Recent Praise for Shubman Gill
Interestingly, Gill’s injury came just days after former BCCI President Sourav Ganguly lauded him as one of India’s most promising leaders. Speaking at a recent event, Ganguly described Gill as a “fantastic batter and a perfect captain,” noting how impressively he has handled the pressures of leading India across formats.“Shubman Gill is a fantastic batter and a perfect captain. He captained India remarkably in England. As a young boy, going to England and captaining there is not easy. He’s an all-format player and will continue to do well for India,” Ganguly had said.
Ganguly’s remarks reflected the widespread confidence in Gill’s leadership, especially after his stellar performances both as a batsman and captain in recent series.
India’s Performance Under Gill’s Leadership
Since taking over as India’s Test and ODI captain, Shubman Gill has made a strong impression. Under his leadership, India has made a solid start to the World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, winning four out of seven Test matches, with two losses and one draw.Gill’s calm demeanour, tactical awareness, and aggressive batting style have drawn comparisons to some of India’s great captains. His ability to adapt across formats has also positioned him as one of the key pillars of Indian cricket’s next generation.
Gill’s Recent Form and Captaincy Journey
At just 25, Gill’s rise to captaincy marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. He has already scored crucial centuries in both Test and ODI formats and led from the front during India’s tour of England earlier this year, where his leadership drew praise from former players and analysts alike.His focus on building partnerships, backing young bowlers, and maintaining team composure under pressure has helped India transition smoothly after the retirement of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Test setup.
The Medical Concern — What Neck Stiffness Could Mean
While neck stiffness might sound minor, such injuries can significantly impact a cricketer’s performance, especially for someone like Gill, whose batting relies on precise head movement and balance. If the issue stems from muscle spasms or nerve compression, recovery could take a few days. However, if scans reveal strain or inflammation, he might have to rest for a longer period.Given that India’s next Test is scheduled just days after this match, the medical team’s decision on Gill’s participation will be crucial.
Impact on Team Composition
If Gill is unable to continue in this match or the upcoming one, India may have to rethink their batting order. Senior players like KL Rahul or Shreyas Iyer might be tasked with additional responsibilities, while a backup opener could be called up for the second Test.For now, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja has taken over on-field duties, ensuring stability and focus among the players as the team continues its campaign against South Africa.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Support
The news of Gill’s injury quickly spread across social media, with fans expressing concern and sending their wishes for a quick recovery. The hashtag #GetWellSoonGill began trending on X (formerly Twitter) within hours. Supporters from around the world shared clips of the incident and messages of encouragement, highlighting how integral Gill has become to Indian cricket in such a short span.Next Story