India’s cricketing hopes in Kolkata have taken a severe blow as Shubman Gill, the elegant right-handed opener, was hospitalised on Saturday evening after suffering a sudden neck spasm. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Gill will not be able to take further part in the first Test against South Africa, leaving the hosts short-handed in a critical clash.
Gill came to the crease a little over an hour into the morning session on Day 2, following the dismissal of Washington Sundar by South African off-spinner Simon Harmer. Seeking to counter the spin threat, Gill attempted an ambitious slog-sweep off the third delivery he faced, successfully sending the ball to the boundary. Unfortunately, the stroke seemed to trigger an acute spasm in his neck, and the opener was immediately seen holding the back of his neck in visible discomfort.
The Indian team physiotherapist rushed to his aid, assessing the situation on the spot. It quickly became apparent that Gill’s head mobility was severely compromised, leaving him no choice but to retire hurt. His departure was a major setback for India, whose innings subsequently folded quickly, losing seven wickets in the next 28 overs to end the day at 189/9.
Gill was unable to field for the remainder of the day and has since been admitted to hospital for observation. According to the BCCI, medical staff are closely monitoring his condition, and further updates on the severity of the spasm are expected. With the second Test scheduled to start in six days in Guwahati, Gill’s availability remains in doubt, posing a potential challenge for the Indian team’s plans for the series.
Analysts have expressed concern about India’s balance in the absence of one of their most reliable top-order batters. “Gill provides stability at the top,” noted a cricket expert. “Losing him even for a single innings can disrupt partnerships and put extra pressure on the middle order.”
Fans and selectors alike are now waiting anxiously for medical updates. India will hope for a swift recovery, but the timing of the injury could not be worse as they aim to gain momentum early in the series against a strong South African side.