In Kolkata, India’s star captain Shubman Gill walked off the field after a painful neck spasm early in Day 2 of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. The 26‑year‑old left the pitch for medical care and will not bat or bowl again in this match.
Gill’s injury was visible right after he hit a fine square‑backward sweep off South African off‑spinner Simon Harmer. He clutched his left neck and struggled to stand, prompting the team’s physio, Kamlesh Jain, to help him onto a stretcher. He was taken to a private hospital – the match’s designated medical partner – and is now under close observation by the BCCI medical team.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India released a statement after Day 3. It confirmed that Gill had no further role in the Test, and that he would be monitored for a future return to the game.
Vice‑captain Rishabh Pant stepped in as stand‑in skipper during Gill’s absence. The situation raised concerns, as earlier footage showed Gill doing neck‑loosening drills before the match started, hinting at a pre‑existing stiffness.
Gill has faced similar neck problems before. He missed India’s opening Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru and also the second T20I against Sri Lanka in July. Fans now hope he recovers quickly and can return to form in the next series.
For India, the loss of a captain and key batsman is a setback, especially with the tour’s next games drawing near. BCCI will keep the public updated on Gill’s condition and any changes to his playing schedule.
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