India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel refused responsible workload for Shubman Gill’s neck harm, which now appears sure to sideline the captain for the rest of the primary Take a look at in opposition to South Africa at Eden Gardens. Gill suffered a neck pressure on Day 2 of the continuing Take a look at in Kolkata. The incident occurred throughout India’s first innings, the place the opener appeared visibly uncomfortable after enjoying a sweep shot and was subsequently taken to hospital for evaluation.
Gill started confidently in opposition to spinner Simon Harmer, executing a managed sweep for 4 earlier than displaying indicators of discomfort. He rose unsteadily from the shot, clutching the left aspect of his neck, and instantly signaled for the physio. Regardless of receiving immediate medical consideration on the sphere, the the choice was rapidly taken to retire himprioritizing his well-being and guaranteeing instant analysis.
“Yeah, I feel we first want to find out how he acquired the neck stiffness, possibly only a dangerous evening’s sleep. I do not assume it is one thing we will put all the way down to the load,” Morkel stated whereas addressing the press in Kolkata on Saturday.
Morkel added that the timing of the harm couldn’t have been worse, emphasizing that Gill is among the many fittest gamers within the squad.
“Gill is a really match man; he takes care of himself very properly. It is simply unlucky that he awoke this morning with a stiff neck and carried that into the day, which was essential for us. One other partnership with him batting round was going to be wanted on the time simply dangerous timing.”
The Indian group administration later confirmed that Gill had suffered an acute neck sprain. He was seen within the dressing room sporting a cervical collar earlier than being stretchered off to hospital for additional analysis.
In accordance with medical recommendation, Gill will stay beneath statement, and his participation in the remainder of the match is taken into account extremely unlikely. The Board of Management for Cricket in India (BCCI) stated the medical group is intently monitoring his restoration and can conduct extra exams to find out the extent of the harm and the suitable course of therapy.
Even earlier than the beginning of Day 2, Gill’s situation had been a priority for the help employees. His discomfort turned extra evident as soon as he got here out to bat, and after retiring harm, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant changed him within the subject.
Gill has been enjoying virtually repeatedly for the reason that IPL 2025 season. After main Gujarat Titans in a grueling five-Take a look at tour of England, he returned house for a quick month-long break earlier than enjoying within the Asia Cup after which captaining India in a two-Take a look at collection in opposition to the West Indies. Extra not too long ago, he featured within the white-ball collection in Australia earlier this month.
He arrived in Kolkata on Sunday from Brisbane after enjoying a T20I on Saturday and took half in India’s coaching session for the Take a look at from Monday.
INDIA FACE A STERN TEST
With Gill unavailable, India face a difficult scenario however stay optimistic about their prospects within the match. On the shut of Day 2, South Africa held a slender lead of 63 runs of their second innings with solely three wickets in hand, leaving the competition finely poised.
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