IND vs SA: BCCI's latest update on Shubman Gill’s neck injury after hospitalisation in Kolkata test

Indian captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the ongoing Test match against South Africa at Eden Gardens after suffering a neck injury. The update came ahead of Day 3, confirming that Gill will not continue in the match and will remain under medical observation.

The BCCI issued an official statement: “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 the day’s play. He is currently under observation in the hospital. He will take no further part in the Test match. He will continue to be monitored by the BCCI medical team.”

Bowling coach Morne Morkel said that Gill’s injury was unlikely due to workload and might have come from “a bad night’s sleep.” He also said Gill is very fit and always careful with his training. Earlier visuals from Day 2 showed Gill doing neck-loosening exercises before play, but he was still seen wincing in pain while trying to move his neck.

How the Incident Happened on the Field

The incident took place during the first session on Day 2. On the fifth ball of the 35th over, Gill played a clean sweep shot off Simon Harmer over backward square for four. However, right after playing the shot, he clutched his neck in visible discomfort and struggled to stand straight.

The team physio attended to him immediately, but with his neck stiff and movement restricted, Gill decided to walk off and retire hurt after scoring four off three balls. He did not take the field for the rest of the day, and Rishabh Pant led the side as the stand-in captain.

After the day’s play, Gill was taken out of the stadium on a stretcher with a neck brace and admitted to the hospital. His father, Lakhwinder Gill, along with the team doctor, stayed by his side. Gill has faced neck issues before, having missed matches in 2024 due to similar problems.