India Captain Shubman Gill Forced Out of Kolkata Test
In a significant blow to the Indian cricket team, captain Shubman Gill has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development on Sunday, November 16, 2025, just before the start of the third day's play.
Details of the Injury and Medical Response
The injury occurred on the second day of the high-stakes match. Gill, who had faced only three deliveries, was compelled to leave the field due to discomfort. Following the conclusion of the day's play, he was immediately taken to a local hospital for a thorough examination. After further scans and assessment, the medical team decided to keep him under observation in the hospital overnight as a precautionary measure.
The BCCI released an official statement clarifying the situation: "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 Test match."
Past Precedents and Team's Perspective
This is not an isolated incident for the young batsman. Last year, during the home series against New Zealand, Gill experienced similar neck stiffness, which led to him missing the first Test in Bengaluru. When asked about the potential cause, India bowling coach Morne Morkel suggested it might not be related to his intense workload. "Maybe just a bad night’s sleep. I don't think we can put it down to the load," Morkel stated in a press conference, emphasizing that Gill is a very fit individual and the timing was simply unfortunate.
The immediate focus for the BCCI medical team is Gill's recovery. His availability for the second Test in Guwahati, scheduled to begin on November 22, is now under a cloud. The team will continue to monitor his condition closely in the coming days.
On the field, India faces a challenging situation. With South Africa ahead by 63 runs at 93 for seven, and captain Temba Bavuma still at the crease, any target exceeding 100 could be difficult to chase on a pitch that has seen 26 wickets fall in just two days, all without their captain and key batsman.
