India faced a big setback during the second day of the first Test of India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, as Captain Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a sudden neck sprain. Moreover, the incident took place only minutes after Gill walked in to bat, which shocked fans and halted the early momentum of India.
Moreover, the injury raised immediate concerns regarding leadership and batting stability for cricket fans across the world, including in the UAE, where the Indian team enjoys enormous support.
Shubman Gill’s Injury: How the Incident Happened
Gill walked in to bat after the dismissal of Washington Sundar in the 35th over, as India was trying to steady themselves at a cautious scoring rate. However, Gill appeared composed initially, but he negotiated two deliveries from South African off-spinner Simon Harmer.
He attempted a sweep on the third ball to connect cleanly and send the ball over backward square leg for a boundary. However, he seemed to suffer a whiplash-like jerk, instantly clutching the back of his neck, as he completed the shot.
Eyewitnesses and cameras captured Gill removing his helmet, wincing in discomfort, and struggling to rotate his neck. However, the physio was instantly rushed onto the field for assessments.
India’s captain chose to walk off the field within moments, as it grimacing and visibly unable to continue. He had faced just three balls. Plus, the BCCI has yet gto release an official statement on the severity of the injury.
A Sudden Setback For India
The retirement of Gill came at a time when India had already lost the following wickets:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (early in the session)
- Washington Sundar (caught at slip moments earlier)
- Now Gill, without being dismissed formally
It meant India had effectively lost three batters in quick succession, which had disrupted their early rhythm. However, the incident has also changed the mood at Eden Gardens. Moreover, fans who had warmly welcomed Gill moments earlier fell silent as he walked off, which triggered questions about whether he could return later.
Rishabh Pant’s Return Adds Drama
The concern in the stadium shifted into excitement when Rishabh Pant entered to bat as Gill walked off. However, this marks his comeback to Test cricket after a long rehabilitation period following the Oval Test.
An arrival of Pant energised the atmosphere, but it could not last long because he got dismissed to 27 runs off 24 balls through South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack while dealing with the shock of losing their captain temporarily. However, Pant became the No. 1 Indian batter to score the most sixes in a test.
Match Context: Rahul, Sundar, and the Road Ahead
Before the injury drama, KL Rahul continued his composed approach and crossed the 4,000-run milestone in Test cricket. Thus, he has become one of the most reliable batters in overseas and home conditions.
Washington Sundar had also put up a steady 29 off 82 balls before a beautifully bowled delivery by Harmer had him caught at slip. At the time of writing, India were all out in the innings at 189 while leading by 30 runs. Unfortunately, he did not return to bat in the innings.
Expert Views: Gill’s Growing Reputation
Just the day before, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had praised Shubman Gill. Moreover, he called Gill a fantastic batter and a perfect captain. Plus, his leadership during the England tour earned immense respect. Therefore, this injury has become a concern for this test and the long-term plan of India.
What’s Next?
Team India will hope that the neck sprain of Shubman Gill is minor and he can return to bat as soon as possible. However, the medical updates are expected soon. Moreover, all eyes will remain fixed on Gill’s recovery and India’s fightback at Eden Gardens as the test progresses.
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