India’s skipper Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the remainder of the first Test against South Africa after suffering a severe neck spasm during Day 2 of the match at Eden Gardens. The BCCI confirmed early on Day 3 that Gill was taken to hospital late on Saturday (November 15) for further examination and has been placed under medical observation.

Gill’s injury has left India a batter short for the fourth-innings chase, and his availability for the second Test in Guwahati — scheduled to begin in six days — is now under serious doubt.

What happened to Shubman Gill?

A little over an hour into Day 2, Gill walked out to bat after Washington Sundar’s dismissal. Facing South African off-spinner Simon Harmer from around the wicket, Gill slog-swept the third ball he faced for four. But immediately after completing the shot, he looked in visible pain, clutching the back of his neck.

The Indian physio attended to him, but Gill’s neck movement was severely restricted. He retired hurt on four, unable to continue. India went on to lose their remaining seven wickets within 28 overs, finishing their first innings at 189/9, and Gill did not return to bat.

He also did not come out to field on Day 3, with BCCI officially ruling him out of the remainder of the Test match.

Will Shubman Gill play the second Test?

As of now, Gill remains under hospital observation, with BCCI stating that his recovery will be monitored closely over the next few days. With the second Test scheduled to start in six days in Guwahati, his fitness remains uncertain.

A neck spasm generally requires:

  • stabilisation

  • 48–72 hours of restricted movement

  • further assessment once stiffness reduces

However, given the severity — Gill required immediate medical attention and could not hold his neck upright — his participation in the second Test is highly doubtful unless he shows rapid improvement.

BCCI’s official update

The board confirmed:
“Shubman Gill had a neck injury on Day 2. He was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of the day’s play. He is currently under observation and will take no further part in the Kolkata Test.”