Shubman Gill seeks specialist’s opinion in Mumbai for neck injury:Indian Test captain released from squad ahead of Guwahati Test

India suffered a major setback ahead of the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, as captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out due to a neck spasm. The BCCI confirmed on Friday that Gill has been released from the squad and has travelled to Mumbai for further medical consultation. His absence adds pressure on India, who are already trailing 1-0 in the two-match Test series after a 30-run loss in Kolkata. Gill did not take part in the team’s practice session on Thursday and was expected to undergo a final fitness test on Friday. However, medical experts advised caution, leading to the decision to withdraw him from the match. With the series on the line, India now face the challenge of reorganising their top order and leadership structure. Left-hander Sai Sudharsan is the leading contender to open the innings, while Nitish Reddy is expected to replace Axar Patel in the playing XI. The second Test begins on Saturday at the Barsapara Stadium. The medical team advises caution for injury management The Indian team is cautious about risking Gill’s long-term fitness. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak emphasised the importance of patience in managing the injury. Also read: Shubman Gill ruled out, Pant to make red-ball captaincy debut: Barsapara Stadium to host first Test match in Guwahati; South Africa lead series 1-0 “He is definitely recovering really well,” Kotak said on Thursday. “Now, the decision – whether to play him or not – will be taken tomorrow evening. The physios, doctors, they will have to take a call that, if he is fully recovered, he should not get that spasm again. “If we have a guarantee that, very likely, he won’t have this issue again, then he will play. If there is a doubt, then I am sure he will take rest for one more game, because it won’t be helpful to the team.” Also read: IND-A vs BAN-A, Rising Stars Asia Cup, semi-final preview: All eyes on Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s performance against lethal Bangladesh bowling attack Bench strength ready to step up for Guwahati Test Kotak added that the team remains confident in its bench strength. “But if he is missing out because of injury, we have batters and plenty of good players. They are professionals; they should come and perform for the team,” he said. “We all wish he plays, but if he doesn’t, we will definitely have a good replacement – and maybe the guy coming in will score a hundred. “Jurel batted at No. 4, so he is one option But until we know about Shubman, there is no point discussing who will play.” The second Test begins under added pressure for India, who must win to keep the series alive. Gill’s absence will test the resilience and depth of the squad as they look to bounce back.