Ahead of the second India–South Africa Test in Guwahati, starting Saturday, the BCCI has released a crucial update on Shubman Gill’s fitness. The Indian captain, who sprained his neck while batting during the first innings of the Kolkata Test, will travel with the squad but remains doubtful for the match.
In an official statement, the BCCI confirmed, “Team India captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test against South Africa and was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of the day’s play. He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. Shubman has been responding well to the medical treatment provided and will travel to Guwahati with the team on 19th November, 2025. He will continue to be monitored by the BCCI medical team and a decision on his participation in the 2nd Test will be taken accordingly.”
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Gill’s absence was felt sharply during India’s fourth-innings collapse, where the hosts bundled out for just 93 while chasing a modest 124. South Africa’s 30-run victory not only gave them a 1-0 lead but also exposed India’s dependence on their young captain, who had earlier retired hurt for just 4 runs in the first innings.
Medical Update: Shubman Gill
Team India captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test against South Africa and was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of day’s play.
He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. Shubman…
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 19, 2025
His exit from the field—later followed by an ambulance transfer to a Kolkata hospital—caused significant concern, though he has since been discharged. However, Gill has not resumed training, which casts genuine doubt over his availability for the Guwahati Test. His presence is even more critical given India’s shaky batting and the pressure to avoid a rare home series defeat.
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In Gill’s absence, Rishabh Pant took over the captaincy, but some of his on-field decisions, particularly the choice not to start Day 3 with Jasprit Bumrah, triggered heavy debate. The move highlighted how much India missed Gill’s calm leadership in crunch moments.
As the series reaches its decisive phase, India will hope their captain recovers in time. Another defeat not only hands South Africa the series but also worsens India’s standing in the World Test Championship race, making Gill’s availability a key factor in the Guwahati Test.
