Shubman Gill discharged from hospital; will play 2nd test after neck injury?

India Test captain Shubman Gill has been discharged from the Kolkata hospital where he was admitted on Saturday evening following a sudden neck injury during the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. 

Gill has now returned to the team hotel and is reported to be stable and recovering well, though uncertainty remains over his participation in the second Test in Guwahati.

According to the latest medical update, Gill can walk, move his neck, and has experienced significant pain reduction.

He will continue to rest under the supervision of doctors and the BCCI medical team, who will monitor his progress over the next few days. A decision on his travel and availability for the next Test will be taken based on how he responds to treatment.

How the Injury Happened

Gill’s injury occurred late on Day 2 shortly after he came out to bat following the drinks break. Facing South Africa spinner Simon Harmer, Gill defended his first ball before attempting a slog-sweep on the next delivery, which he connected cleanly for four.

However, the forceful movement triggered a whiplash-like reaction, leaving him clutching the back of his neck in visible discomfort.

The Indian physio attended to him immediately, and Gill retired hurt after just three balls. He was soon taken to a local hospital in a cervical collar for precautionary tests.

Impact on India’s Defeat

His absence proved to be a significant setback for India during their tricky fourth-innings chase. Set a modest target of 124 runs, India collapsed to 93 all out, slipping to a 30-run defeat.

On a gripping and turning pitch at Eden Gardens, India’s batters failed to build meaningful partnerships, and the additional pressure of missing their captain intensified the collapse.

As the series now tilts in South Africa’s favour, India awaits further medical updates on Gill’s condition to determine their approach for the second Test.