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Day 2 of the first India–South Africa Test in Kolkata witnessed a worrying moment for the hosts as captain Shubman Gill retired hurt shortly after arriving at the crease. The young skipper, who looked composed initially, was forced to walk off with visible discomfort in his neck, prompting immediate medical attention and an official update from the BCCI.
Shubman Gill’s promising start cut short by neck injury
Gill came out to bat following Washington Sundar’s dismissal in the 35th over, and his early movements suggested complete assurance. He negotiated the first two deliveries from Simon Harmer confidently before executing a clean, well-timed sweep over square leg for four. However, the elegance of the shot was followed by an unexpected twist.
Just as he completed the stroke, Gill appeared visibly distressed. He removed his helmet almost instinctively and reached toward the left side of his neck, signalling discomfort. Within seconds, it became clear that the issue was not minor. Gill paused, assessed his own condition, and called for immediate assistance from the physio.
Indian captain retires hurt after brief on-field assessment
The on-field medical team conducted a quick evaluation, but Gill showed signs of increasing stiffness. Not wanting to aggravate the problem, the Indian think-tank opted for caution over risk. The skipper was advised to walk back to the dressing room for further examination, ending his stay at the crease after facing just three deliveries.
As he made his way off the field, Gill looked troubled, with support staff frequently moving in and out of the dressing room area. The incident raised understandable concern in the Indian camp, especially considering his central role as both captain and top-order batter.
The 25-year-old had only just taken guard and looked ready to anchor India’s continuation of their innings, making the timing of the setback all the more unsettling. The physio’s brief treatment on the field did little to ease the stiffness, reinforcing the decision to retire hurt.
BCCI issues official update on Gill’s condition
Shortly after the incident, the BCCI released a statement confirming that the Indian captain had suffered a neck spasm. While not a major structural injury, neck spasms can severely restrict movement and require careful management, especially during a high-intensity Test match.
“Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team. A decision on his participation today will be taken as per his progress,” the board stated on X (formerly Twitter).
🚨 Update 🚨
Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team. A decision on his participation today will be taken as per his progress.
Updates ▶️ | |
— BCCI (@BCCI)
The update indicates that Gill’s return to action on Day 2 will depend entirely on how well he responds to treatment over the next few hours. With a long series ahead and heavy batting responsibilities resting on his shoulders, the Indian team is expected to tread cautiously. Gill’s injury comes at a delicate stage of the Test, where India aim to consolidate their position against a competitive South African attack. His availability for the remainder of the day — and potentially for the innings — will be crucial in determining India’s approach moving forward.
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