India suffered a late setback ahead of the 4th T20I against South Africa in Lucknow as Shubman Gill was ruled out of the match due to a foot injury, confirmed shortly before the toss.
The decision was taken as a precautionary measure, keeping in mind both the player’s fitness and India’s broader focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup.
What happened to Shubman Gill?
According to team updates, Gill picked up a foot niggle ahead of the game and was assessed by the Indian team’s medical staff. While the injury is not believed to be serious, the management opted not to risk him in cold and demanding conditions at the Ekana Stadium.
With foggy weather, low temperatures, and a cold pitch, fielding and quick movements could have aggravated the issue, prompting India to rest the batter.
Form and workload also a factor
Gill had scored runs in the previous match but not enough to conclusively signal a full return to form. With the series situation under control and the World Cup looming, India appear to be prioritising player availability over short-term gains.
Team management has consistently indicated that managing workload and minor injuries is key during this phase of preparation.
What it means for India’s XI
Gill’s absence opens the door for:
- A reshuffle at the top of the order, or
- An additional middle-order option, depending on team balance and conditions
India still hold the advantage in the series, while South Africa face a must-win encounter, making Gill’s withdrawal a significant but calculated call.
Is Gill expected to miss more matches?
As of now, there is no indication of a long-term injury. Gill is expected to be monitored closely, and his availability for the next game — and the upcoming World Cup fixtures — will depend on how the foot responds over the next few days.
In summary, Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the 4th T20I due to a minor foot injury, with India choosing caution over risk in challenging winter conditions.
