India coach issues concerning update on Shubman Gill’s neck injury ahead of 2nd Test

India National Cricket Team batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has provided a colossal update on the fitness of the Test captain, Shubman Gill, ahead of the second match of the series against the South Africa National Cricket Team.

Sitanshu Kotak said that Shubman Gill is recovering really well from the neck injury he sustained during the first Test against the Proteas, and they will soon make a decision on his participation in the next game.

What exactly happened to Shubman Gill?

The Indian Test skipper was troubled by a massive injury scare during the Test series opener at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where the hosts suffered an embarrassing loss. On Day 2 of the Test match, Shubman Gill retired hurt, clutching the back of his neck after facing just three balls.

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Earlier in the day, he was spotted by the broadcasters doing neck exercises before the start, and the bowling coach, Morne Morkel, had revealed that he had woken up with a stiff neck after Day 1.

Shubman Gill's injury was more severe than it looked initially, as he was stretchered off from the venue and was hospitalised following neck spasms.

He was also seen wearing a neck brace, and the BCCI announced that the skipper won't be able to participate in the rest of the Test match. The Punjab lad didn't come out to bat during the run chase, and this affected India badly as they failed to chase down 124 runs.

Even if he's fully recovered, we have to ensure he doesn't spasm in the game again - Sitanshu Kotak

Several media outlets have provided contrasting updates on Shubman Gill's injury status over the last few days, and now, finally, clarity has been provided by the India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

Speaking to the reporters, Kotak stated that Gill is recovering well, but they will take a cautious approach with him and not unleash him in Guwahati even if he has fully recovered, in case there is a doubt about the neck spasm flaring up again.

"Gill is recovering really well. Now, the decision will be taken tomorrow evening. Even if he's fully recovered, we have to ensure he doesn't spasm in the game again.

"The doctor and physio's concern is this. If they're sure it won't happen, then he'll play. Else he will rest for another game," India National Cricket Team batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

If Shubman can't play, Dhruv Jurel is an option at No. 4 - Sitanshu Kotak

Sitanshu Kotak was optimistic of India's chances in the second Test against the Proteas, saying that a player replacing Gill in the playing XI might score a ton.

"We all wish he (Gill) plays but if he can't, someone coming in place of him might score a century," Kotak said, as quoted by PTI

Being more specific, Sitanshu Kotak stated that Dhruv Jurel can be promoted to No.4, but they'll play the waiting game before making the final call.

"If Shubman can't play, Dhruv Jurel is an option at No. 4. But we have to look at conditions. We have to see if Shubman plays or not," Kotak said as quoted by RevSportz.

Also Read: South Africa provide official update on Kagiso Rabada’s availability for 2nd Test vs India