The Indian cricket team has suffered a major setback. T20 vice-captain Shubman Gill will miss the remaining two T20 matches against South Africa due to a toe injury.
The injury occurred during a training session in Lucknow. The BCCI medical team has advised him to rest.
India currently leads the series 2-1, and the fourth match was scheduled to be played in Lucknow, but the toss was delayed due to fog. Gill was not in good form in the series, scoring only 32 runs in three matches.
How did the injury happen and what was said?
Gill was hit by a ball during a long batting practice session in the nets, resulting in the toe injury. Team sources said the injury doesn’t appear serious at the moment, but scans will provide a clearer picture.
“Yes, he injured his toe while batting. It doesn’t look bad right now but further assessment and scans will reveal a clear picture. One also has to be mindful of the weather in the northern part of the country which extends recovery time from niggles. A call on his participation for the Ahmedabad game will be taken soon,” a team source said.
The team had already lost all-rounder Axar Patel due to illness, with Shahbaz Ahmed replacing him. Jasprit Bumrah had missed one match due to personal reasons but returned for the fourth match.
Who will replace Gill?
In Gill’s absence, Sanju Samson might get an opportunity in the top order. Samson was on the bench and is now likely to open the innings. The team management will be looking to secure a 3-1 series lead.
The fifth and final match will be played in Ahmedabad on December 19. Gill’s injury will require the team to be cautious, as the T20 World Cup is approaching next year. India will play its next series against New Zealand, which will be the last before the World Cup.
Team India still boasts a strong batting lineup with players like Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya. South Africa will be looking to level the series.
