Kolkata, November 15, 2025 - A pall of concern has descended over Eden Gardens as Indian captain Shubman Gill was stretchered off the field and into an awaiting ambulance during the second day of the first Test against South Africa. The incident occurred shortly after Gill experienced a neck spasm while attempting a sweep shot off the bowling of Simon Harmer.
Gill, who came in to bat after the fall of Washington Sundar's wicket, immediately looked uncomfortable after executing the shot, clutching his neck in pain. The team physio attended to him, and he initially walked off the field as a precaution, having scored 4 runs off 3 balls. However, the situation escalated dramatically when Gill reappeared from the dressing room on a stretcher, his neck immobilized by a cervical collar.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later confirmed that Gill was suffering from a neck spasm and was being closely monitored by the medical team. A decision regarding his further participation in the Test will be made based on his progress. According to news agency PTI, the sight of Gill being taken away in an ambulance sparked fears that the injury might be more serious than initially assessed.
India assistant coach Morne Morkel downplayed the severity of the injury, suggesting that it could have been triggered even before Gill took to the field. "We need to understand how it started. It could simply be a bad night's sleep," Morkel stated, dismissing concerns about potential workload issues. He added, "Gill manages his fitness extremely well. This was unfortunate timing more than anything".
The incident has cast a shadow over India's strong position in the Test. On the first day, the Indian bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah's impressive 5 for 27, had restricted South Africa to a total of 159. India finished day one at 37 for 1. On Day 2, India were eventually bowled out for 189, securing a slender lead of 30 runs. In South Africa's second innings, Ravindra Jadeja's outstanding performance of 4 wickets for 29 runs, along with Kuldeep Yadav's 2 wickets, left South Africa struggling at 93 for 7 at stumps on Day 2, with a lead of just 63 runs.
The extent of Gill's injury and his availability for the remainder of the match remain uncertain. His absence would be a significant blow to the Indian team, not only due to his batting prowess but also his leadership role as captain. With the series against South Africa being India's last Test engagement until August 2026, the team will be hoping for a swift recovery for their captain.
