Gill’s Health Scare Overshadows India-South Africa Test Opener

Indian Test captain Shubman Gill has been admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata for overnight observation following a neck injury sustained during India’s opening Test match against South Africa on Saturday. Gill initially seemed uncomfortable during the warm-up prior to Day 2, leading to his retirement from India’s first innings. The BCCI later announced that he was suffering from a neck spasm.

Hospital sources revealed that Gill continues to feel discomfort in his neck, and therefore, he will remain under observation overnight for further evaluation. Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel mentioned at the end of the day that the discomfort could be due to Gill waking up with a stiff neck.

Related: Morkel downplays Gill’s injury as workload-related; surprised by Eden’s pitch

Despite attempting to hide his discomfort, Gill’s time at the crease in his usual No.4 position was brief, lasting only three balls. After hitting a four against South African spinner Simon Harmer, Gill was seen holding his neck and called for the physio. The visibly pained 26-year-old then returned to the dressing room and did not participate further in the day’s play.

In Gill’s absence, Vice-captain Rishabh Pant led the team during South Africa’s second innings. By the end of Day 2, the Proteas were struggling at 93 for seven. Notably, Gill had previously missed a Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru in October 2024 due to a similar neck issue.

Published on November 15, 2025.