India suffered an early setback on the second day of the opening Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata after their captain, Shubman Gill, retired hurt due to a neck strain that led the right-handed batter to leave the field in the 35th over of the innings. Gill walked in after Washington Sundar’s dismissal and appeared composed at the crease. 

Shubman Gill, having negotiated the first couple of balls from the leg spinner- Simon Harmer- executed a well-timed sweep over the square leg for a boundary, a shot that he played with pure authority and control. The mood changed instantly as he appeared in visible discomfort and removed his helmet to place his hand on the left side of his neck.

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The Punjab-born clearly struggled with stiffness and stood still for a moment before signaling to the physio. After a little assessment of the on-field situation, the Indian management opted against taking any risks with their captain. A replacement batter, Rishabh Pant, was summoned as Gill began to walk back to the pavilion slowly.

Shubman Gill retired hurt with injury during IND vs SA 1st Test in Kolkata

The incident took place only minutes after he arrived at the crease. The physio suggested the batter go off the field, which prompted immediate concern in the Indian dressing room. The medical staff were seen moving in and out as the veteran headed straight inside for further treatment.

The crowd, however, gave a warm welcome to Pant, who smashed two over boundaries in the knock to become India’s leading six-hitter in the longest format with 92 sixes. Gill’s early and temporary exit disrupted the home side’s exit as Pant returned for 27 runs.

KL Rahul was also dismissed for 39 runs in 119 balls, while Dhruv Jurel went back to the pavilion for 14 runs. Simon Harmer picked up two wickets with the ball while Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, and Keshav Maharaj shared three wickets between them. India found themselves at 153/5 in the second session of the second day.