Why did Shubman Gill Leave the Field While Batting in the IND vs SA 1st Test?

Day 1 of the first Test between India and South Africa belonged entirely to the home side. After choosing to bat first, South Africa never really settled and were bowled out for just 159. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout performer, producing one of those spells that remind everyone why he’s considered among the best bowlers in the world. He finished with a brilliant five-wicket haul.

India’s reply got off to a slightly shaky start when Yashasvi Jaiswal fell early, but KL Rahul and Washington Sundar took their time. Jaiswal's wicket was a big blow for India as he is among the best openers in the world. By stumps on Day 1, India were 37 for 1.

Shubman Gill Injury Update: When Will He Return?

India faced an early trouble on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test when captain Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a neck strain. Gill came to the crease following Washington Sundar’s dismissal in the 35th over and initially looked in control. He handled his first two balls from Simon Harmer and even pulled off a well-timed sweep over square leg for four.

As he rose from the shot, Shubman Gill appeared uncomfortable, holding the left side of his neck and removing his helmet. He paused briefly before signalling for the physio, and after a quick on-field check, the team decided not to take any risks. Gill made a cautious walk back to the pavilion.

The incident occurred just minutes after he arrived at the crease, having faced only three deliveries. Gill’s discomfort looked serious enough to require immediate attention from the medical staff, who took him inside for further evaluation. The Eden Gardens crowd, who had cheered him moments earlier, fell quiet before turning their attention to Rishabh Pant, who walked out to bat, marking his return to Test cricket since the Oval.

Gill’s early exit briefly disrupted India’s momentum at a crucial stage. He has been one of the best Test batsmen in the world for the last few months. At that point, the team was 79 for 2, and the loss of their captain added to the pressure in the middle. Rahul also reached a personal milestone, crossing 4,000 Test runs early in the day. India will be hoping that Gill’s neck strain is minor, with updates on his condition expected later in the day.

Home Team Looking in Firm Control During IND vs SA 1st Test

By lunch on Day 2 of the first Test at Eden Gardens, India looked in control, but had faced a few concerns. The team resumed at 37/1, with KL Rahul and Washington Sundar at the crease, and cautiously built their innings.

The biggest setback came early when captain Shubman Gill retired hurt after facing just three balls, struggling with a neck strain. Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant came together to take charge of the innings at a tricky pitch that offered uneven bounce and movement, keeping the batters on their toes.

India’s confidence came from their bowling performance on Day 1, where Jasprit Bumrah had dismantled the South African top order and helped restrict them to 159. That gave the batters a small target to surpass and a chance to take control of the game. By lunch, India were 138/4, just 21 runs behind South Africa, but with wickets in hand, they can take a decent lead and put the visitors under pressure.

The focus now shifts to how Jadeja and the lower order build a partnership after the break and whether India can convert this solid start into a lead that puts South Africa under pressure. Despite the concern over Gill, the home side has managed to maintain control and keep the momentum on their side.