Shubman Gill’s injury has placed India in an unexpected leadership dilemma as they prepare for the remaining matches against South Africa. After missing the second Test in Kolkata due to a neck injury, Gill is now doubtful for the upcoming three-match ODI series, forcing the management to reconsider their captaincy plans at a crucial time.
India trail 0-1 in the Test series and must win the second match in Guwahati on November 22 to avoid another series defeat under coach Gautam Gambhir.Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury during the first Test in Kolkata, an incident that forced him to retire hurt early in his innings and miss the rest of the match.
Although he traveled with the team to Guwahati on November 19, medical reports indicate he may need at least ten more days of rehabilitation. With the ODI series beginning soon after the Test, his participation appears doubtful
India Searches for Temporary Captain
The management is considering resting him entirely to prevent further complications, especially since Gill has been involved in continuous cricket in recent months. His absence creates a leadership vacuum because he had been appointed ODI captain for the South Africa series.
Shreyas Iyer, named his deputy, is also recovering from an injury suffered during the Sydney ODI. As a result, India might have to turn to KL Rahul or Axar Patel as temporary ODI captains, though neither was initially in line to take over leadership duties.
Despite the timing, the ODI series is not the highest priority for the team. The main focus lies on preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in India and Sri Lanka. This gives the management some room to experiment with leadership and squad combinations during the ODIs.
If Gill is ruled out, selectors are likely to consider Ruturaj Gaikwad as his direct replacement for the ODI squad. Gaikwad has been part of India’s white-ball setup and fits seamlessly into the top-order role Gill usually occupies. However, even with Gaikwad’s suitability, Yashasvi Jaiswal remains a strong contender for the opening slot.
The left-hander has only one ODI to his name but has impressed selectors with his form and consistent shot-making ability.
Selectors Look at Replacement Options for Gill
Should Shreyas Iyer remain unavailable due to his injury, Tilak Varma may earn a recall to strengthen the middle order. The young left-hander proved his match-winning capabilities when he scored an unbeaten 69 in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan, helping India lift the trophy.
His adaptability and temperament make him a valuable option during this transitional phase. Gill’s injury came as a blow to India early in the first Test, forcing him to leave the field and undergo immediate medical attention.
He was taken to the hospital on the same evening and discharged the next day. Although he joined the team for the Guwahati Test preparations, indications suggest he will not participate in the match. Sai Sudharsan is expected to step into the batting lineup, while wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is set to lead the team in this must-win game
Impact of Gill’s Injury During the Kolkata Test
Following the conclusion of the Test series, India will turn their attention to the three-match ODI series at home against South Africa. The opening match will take place on November 30 in Ranchi, followed by fixtures in Raipur on December 3 and Visakhapatnam on December 6.
The matches will provide India with an opportunity to test new combinations while managing injuries and workload ahead of next year’s major tournaments.
