Shubman Gill and KL Rahul - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development around Indian cricket, star batter Shubman Gill is unlikely to recover in time for the South Africa white-ball series. Reports suggest that the right-handed batter is now doubtful for the T20I series and will only return next year.
For the unversed, Gill suffered a neck spasm in the first Test at Eden Gardens, following which he was admitted to hospital, ruling him out of the Kolkata Test. Further evaluation and scans revealed the injury to be more serious than initially thought.
Gill unlikely for T20I series vs SA
Eventually, the selectors released Gill from the Test squad, and reports were that he would return for the T20I series and miss the ODIs as well. However, in the latest events, a report from The Times of India mentioned that Gill is doubtful for the T20I series vs SA starting from December 9.
Notably, Gill is receiving injections and is in constant touch with a spinal consultant. Therefore, the selectors don't want to risk aggravating Gill's injury by pushing his return.
KL Rahul set to lead in ODIs
The report also mentioned that the selectors are tasked with the headache of choosing a captain for the ODI series vs South Africa, as Gill is ruled out and Shreyas Iyer is still recovering from the spleen injury he suffered during the Australia tour.
Further, KL Rahul is touted to return as captain for India vs South Africa ODIs starting from November 30. For the record, Rahul has led India in 12 ODIs, his first assignment back in January 2022 against the Proteas.
However, it will be after two years that Rahul will return to a leadership role in One-Day cricket. Interestingly, his last ODI captaincy assignment was also against South Africa.
