Team India Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill is close to making his return after spending several weeks recovering from a neck injury that was sustained during the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. Gill is likely to be available for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, “subject to fitness.”
Gill was forced to retire hurt during the first innings of the Kolkata Test. He went on to miss the subsequent Guwahati fixture as well as the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa. He later met a spine specialist in Mumbai, and his return to action is expected soon after his rehabilitation in Bengaluru.
Shubman Gill Progressing Well in Rehabilitation at BCCI Center of Excellence
According to a report in the Times of India, Shubman Gill has been steadily working toward full match fitness at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he arrived on December 1. He is following a structured rehab plan designed specifically for his neck injury.
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Gill has already completed several batting sessions to check his pain levels, movement, and stamina. The early signs have been positive, allowing the support staff to slowly increase his workload. He has started fielding and catching drills as well.
The CoE’s medical team is being careful and does not want to rush him back, especially with major tournaments ahead. Their priority is to ensure Gill returns only when he is completely ready and not at risk of further injury.
Shubman Gill Still Awaiting Official Clearance from the BCCI Center of Excellence
The report further stated that Shubman Gill is still awaiting official clearance from the BCCI Center of Excellence, which should come within the next 48 hours after he completes a match-simulation test.
However, he has shown no discomfort during his recent batting sessions. He is expected to join the Indian team in Cuttack on December 6 for the T20I series against South Africa.
The selectors, including chief Ajit Agarkar, have already been updated on his recovery, and Gill is almost certain to be named in the squad with the usual tag “subject to fitness.” If there is even a minor concern, Gill may skip the first T20I, but at this stage, that possibility is unlikely.
Selectors Set to Finalize India’s T20I Squad for South Africa Series
The selectors are expected to meet on Wednesday to finalize the T20I squad for the home series against South Africa. Notably, the board is likely to make the announcement within the next 24 hours.
Along with Shubman Gill, the focus will also be on Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah was rested after the Test series, while Hardik was asked to prove his fitness in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy following a two-month injury layoff.
Hardik impressed in his recent SMAT outing against Punjab. The T20I series is scheduled to begin after the ongoing ODI leg, starting on December 7 at the Barabati Stadium.
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