Shubman Gill Determined to Return for 2nd Test Despite Neck Injury Concerns

India captain Shubman Gill is leaving no stone unturned to return to the playing XI for the second Test against South Africa, which begins on Saturday at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Despite lingering concerns over his neck injury sustained during the first Test in Kolkata, Gill is reportedly eager to prove his fitness in the upcoming training sessions.

According to PTI, the 25-year-old arrived in Guwahati on Wednesday with the rest of the squad and is expected to undergo a full fitness assessment during India’s practice sessions on Thursday and Friday. His participation will depend on how well he responds to training over the next two days.

BCCI Provides Update on Gill’s Recovery

The BCCI on Wednesday confirmed that Shubman Gill has been cleared to travel with the team and is “responding positively” to medical treatment. However, the board also clarified that a final decision on his availability will be made closer to match day.

Gill was hospitalised after suffering the neck injury while attempting a sweep shot during the first innings of the Kolkata Test. He appeared in visible pain and had to be stretchered off the field, ruling him out of the remainder of the match.

India’s Batting Collapse Highlights Gill’s Importance

India clearly felt the absence of their captain and premier batter as they failed to capitalise on early momentum. Despite bowling South Africa out for 159, India couldn’t build a substantial lead in the first innings. Chasing a modest 124-run target, the hosts collapsed to 93 all out, recording their lowest fourth-innings total at home in Test history.

Gill’s return could provide much-needed stability and composure to the top order, especially against South Africa’s spin attack, led by the in-form Simon Harmer, who took eight wickets in Kolkata to earn the Player of the Match award.

India’s Struggles Under Gambhir and Gill’s Determination to Bounce Back

Gill’s determination to play in Guwahati comes at a crucial time for India. The team has now lost four of their last six home Tests, all under head coach Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. The defeats include last year’s historic 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand — India’s first-ever series loss of that margin on home soil.

For Gill, the upcoming match represents not just a chance to level the series but also an opportunity to lead India out of a difficult phase. His leadership and batting form will be vital as the side looks to restore dominance in home conditions.

Team Management Likely to Take a Cautious Approach

While Gill’s passion to return is evident, team management is expected to prioritise his long-term fitness. The young captain has had a packed schedule over the past few months.

After serving as vice-captain in the Asia Cup, Gill played a two-Test home series against the West Indies, followed by an intense tour of Australia, where he featured in eight white-ball matches and led India in three ODIs for the first time.

Given this heavy workload, the selectors may opt for caution to avoid aggravating the injury, especially with the limited-overs leg of the South Africa tour starting November 30.

Selection Dynamics: Gill’s Role in a Left-Heavy Batting Line-Up

India’s line-up for the first Test featured an unusual combination — six left-handers in the playing XI, the most in the team’s Test history. Gill’s absence left a noticeable gap, as his right-handed presence could have provided better balance against off-spinners like Harmer.

If declared fit, Gill’s return would not only strengthen India’s batting order but also offer tactical variation, which the side sorely missed in Kolkata.

What Lies Ahead for Team India

The second Test in Guwahati will be crucial as India attempt to avoid another home series defeat. Beyond the immediate challenge, the team must also manage player workloads and keep key players like Gill fresh for the upcoming three ODIs and five T20Is against South Africa scheduled between November 30 and December 19.

As things stand, all eyes will be on Gill’s training sessions this week. His recovery and fitness assessment will determine not just his participation in the Guwahati Test but also the team’s strategy moving forward.