India suffered an early setback on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test after captain Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a neck strain, cutting short what had looked like a promising start to his innings at Eden Gardens. Gill walked in after the dismissal of Washington Sundar in the 35th over and appeared composed at the crease. He safely negotiated his first two deliveries from Simon Harmer before executing a well-timed sweep over square leg for four, a shot played with authority and control. However, the mood changed instantly.
India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 2: Live
As he rose from completing the sweep, Gill appeared in visible discomfort. He removed his helmet and placed his hand on the left side of his neck, clearly struggling with stiffness. He stood still for a moment before signaling to the physio. After a brief on-field assessment, the Indian management opted against taking any risks with their captain. A replacement batter was summoned, and Gill began the slow walk back to the pavilion.
The incident took place only minutes after he arrived at the crease, with the 25-year-old facing just three deliveries before retiring hurt. He looked increasingly stiff as the physio attended to him, prompting immediate concern in the Indian dressing room. Medical staff were seen moving in and out as Gill headed straight inside for further treatment.
Listen to the crowd’s roar when Shubman Gill was walking back to the pavilion and Rishabh Pant was coming to the crease.
Respect is Earned not begged.pic.twitter.com/1omBSFsIgP— i (@arrestshubman) November 15, 2025
The crowd, which had welcomed him warmly moments earlier, briefly fell silent. Their concern soon shifted to excitement as Rishabh Pant made his way out to bat, marking his return to the longest format since the Oval Test.
Gill’s exit temporarily disrupted India’s rhythm at a stage when the hosts were looking to build stability. At the time, India were 79 for 2, and the tension in the middle increased as they adjusted to both the loss of a batter and the uncertainty surrounding their captain’s condition.
KL Rahul and Washington Sundar steadied the innings with watchful batting, keeping the run rate slightly above two. Rahul also crossed the 4,000-run mark in Test cricket early in the day, reaching the milestone with composure as he helped anchor India’s effort against disciplined South African bowling.
India will hope Gill’s injury is not serious, with updates expected later in the day.
– Ends
Published By:
Saurabh Kumar
Published On:
Nov 15, 2025
