Shubman Gill hospitalized after suffering neck spasm on Day 2 of IND vs SA 2025 1st Test: Reports

Team India skipper Shubman Gill's participation for the remainder of the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata is doubtful after he was hospitalized due to neck spasm. According to a report of ESPNcricinfo, the 26-year-old was taken to a private hospital and was seen wearing a neck brace, as he was accompanied by a team doctor.

The incident with the Indian skipper transpired when he walked out to bat in the 35th over of the innings on Day 2 following Washington Sundar's dismissal. The youngster felt a discomfort in his neck after sweeping Simon Harmer for a boundary, and had to walk off. The BCCI issued the below statement on Gill's injury:

"Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team."

Ahead of the day's play, the Punjab-born cricketer was noticed by broadcasters performing a handful of neck exercises in front of the coaching staff and the medical team. The injury also comes at a time when Gill's workload management is sharply under focus due to playing all-format cricket on a continuous basis.

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Rishabh Pant captained Team India on Day 2 in Shubman Gill's absence

Rishabh Pant displayed some brilliant keeping skills (Credits: Getty)

With Pant being the vice-captain, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter led the home side on Day 2 in the regular skipper's absence. The 28-year-old captained the hosts well, reducing the Proteas to 93/7, as the tourists hold a lead of only 63 heading into Day 3. Ravindra Jadeja exploited the tricky batting conditions perfectly, registering figures of 13-3-29-4, while Kuldeep Yadav snared a couple. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel also claimed one, leaving South Africa reeling.

Visiting captain Temba Bavuma is still at the crease, batting on 29 but will only have the company of tailenders. Hence, the veteran must face as many deliveries or overs as possible if the visitors are to set a challenging target. Team India were bowled out for 189 in their first essay, taking a slender 30-run lead.