Shubman Gill likely to return for T20I series against SA:Heads to NCA for match fitness clearance; Jasprit Bumrah set to rejoin Team India in Cuttack

Shubman Gill’s recovery has brought positive news for Team India ahead of the upcoming T20I series against South Africa. After missing international cricket due to a neck injury, the India captain for Tests and ODIs is now steadily moving towards full fitness. If things progress well, Gill may join the T20I squad before the first match on December 9 in Cuttack. Gill has been out of action since November 15, when neck spasms forced him to leave the first Test in Kolkata. Since then, he has undergone medical consultations, personal rehab, and specialist treatment. With his condition improving, there is growing confidence within the management that he could be fit in time for the T20Is. With Gill on the road to recovery and Bumrah expected to return, India could field a strong side for the five-match T20I series, boosting their preparation for upcoming international commitments. Also read: Kohli confirms he’ll only play ODIs, ends Test return talks: Batting coach asks why doubt Virat’s 2027 World Cup availability when he’s playing well Shubman Gill begins rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru As of Monday (December 1), Gill is scheduled to report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. He will begin an intensive rehab program immediately. According to sources, there is more than a 50 per cent chance that the CoE will clear him for a return to international cricket. After leaving the Indian team in Guwahati, Gill travelled to Mumbai for expert consultation and then continued his recovery work in Chandigarh. His dedication to the rehab process has impressed those monitoring him closely. A source said, “The captain has put in a lot of hard work during the rehab process. It is up to the CoE now.” If cleared, Gill is expected to join the Indian squad in Cuttack by December 6 or 7. Aldo read: Rohit will retire after 2027 World Cup, claims his coach: Lad recalls his transforming from spinner to batter, says Sharma focuses on lifting championship title Bumrah set to rejoin for the T20I series in Cuttack In another major boost for India, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to return for the T20I series. The pace spearhead has been rested for the ongoing ODIs as part of careful workload management. Sources suggest that he will be available for the T20Is, where his workload will remain limited to four overs per match. India will play the first T20I in Cuttack on December 9, followed by matches in New Chandigarh (Dec 11), Dharamsala (Dec 14), Lucknow (Dec 17), and Ahmedabad (Dec 19).