The Indian cricket team has encountered a significant setback during the ongoing first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, as skipper Shubman Gill has been hospitalised with a serious health concern. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued an official medical update, confirming that Gill was admitted overnight following severe neck spasms. His participation in the remainder of this Test — and possibly the next in Guwahati — looks increasingly unlikely.
The first Test of the series began on November 14 and, given the nature of the pitch and the dominance of spin, is expected to conclude by Day 3. Temba Bavuma’s decision to bat first backfired as India’s spin-packed attack, featuring four spinners, exploited the subcontinent conditions to perfection. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been standouts, making regular inroads into the South African batting lineup.
However, amidst India’s upper hand in the game, the shock came when captain Gill walked in to bat in the first session of Day 2. After facing just three deliveries, he appeared visibly distressed, signalling discomfort before eventually being stretchered off the field. Gill did not return for fielding duties either, forcing wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant to take over as acting captain.
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It was later revealed that Gill had been taken to Kolkata’s Woodlands Hospital. Reports confirm that he is being treated under the supervision of Dr. Saptarshi Basi. A specialist medical board — comprising a cardiologist, neurosurgeon, neurologist, and critical care expert — has been formed to oversee his condition. NDTV sources suggest he was placed in the ICU purely as a precautionary measure.
🚨 Update 🚨
Captain Shubman Gill had a neck injury on Day 2 of the ongoing Test against South Africa in Kolkata. He was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of day’s play.
He is currently under observation in the hospital. He will take no further part in the… pic.twitter.com/o7ozaIECLq
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 16, 2025
His condition has raised doubts about his return not just in this Test but also ahead of the second match scheduled in Guwahati on November 22. A detailed report by RevSportz noted, “It will depend on the speed of his recovery, and it is impossible to say for sure either way at this point. There is doubt, but hope he recovers faster than expected.”
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Despite the setback, India’s bowlers have kept control of the game. In their second innings, South Africa faltered once again, losing seven wickets early. Only a gritty partnership between Bavuma and all-rounder Corbin Bosch has kept the visitors afloat, extending their lead to 100 by Day 3.
As the situation stands, India is on the verge of sealing a commanding win — but the focus remains strongly on Shubman Gill’s health and recovery. His absence adds a serious question mark over India’s leadership and top-order consistency moving forward in the series.
