Shubman Gill in doubt for 1st IND vs NZ 2024 Test due to stiff neck - Reports
Team India batter Shubman Gill is reportedly doubtful for the upcoming first Test against New Zealand due to an apparent stiff neck issue. The series opener is scheduled to begin from Tuesday, October 16 onwards at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
According to a report by India Today, Gill complained of neck and shoulder pain to the medical team, and a call regarding his inclusion in the playing XI is expected to be taken on the morning of the clash.
The Men in Blue will have to shuffle their batting unit if Gill is unfit to take the field for the first Test. Given that they have no other bonafide No.3 option, a promotion for KL Rahul is likely, while Sarfaraz Khan could occupy the vacant slot in the middle-order.
KL Rahul has played at the No.3 position a total of five times in Test cricket. He holds an average of 17.60, with his last appearance in the role coming during the 2018 England tour.
Skipper Rohit Sharma has to make a couple of crucial calls before the contest, with Gill's fitness and the conditions playing a huge role. If Gill is fit, there is no reason for the Men in Blue to alter the batting combination. On the other hand, the overhead conditions could play a role in determining the bowling combination as India might be tempted to play with three seamers for the third match running.
Gill had begun the home season with a disappointing duck against Bangladesh, but turned things around quickly to score a ton in the second innings in Chennai. He also compiled a quickfire 39 in India's historic win during the second Test in Kanpur.
Shubman Gill had missed the second T20I against Sri Lanka due to a similar issue
During the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka in July, Gill was absent from the playing XI due to a neck spasm. Skipper Surykaumar Yadav had mentioned the batter's injury during the toss, with wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson replacing him.
Gill recovered in time to play the series finale, and scored 39 runs to help India complete a white-wash in Gautam Gambhir's maiden series in charge as head coach.