Will Shubman Gill And Akash Deep Play Second Test Vs New Zealand? Assistant Coach Reveals

Gill is expected to play 2nd Test vs NZ [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]Gill is expected to play 2nd Test vs NZ [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X]

In an encouraging sign for India, young batter Shubman Gill is expected to make his comeback in Pune after missing the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru. The stylish batter from Punjab was ruled out of the series opener at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after developing a neck injury. 

Ryan ten Doeschate Speaks On Gill's Availability

Meanwhile, India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has opened up on Gill's recovery ahead of the second Test in Pune. Speaking to the media ahead of the crucial clash, the Dutch legend revealed that Gill has progressed well and will be available for the penultimate encounter. 

"He's had a slight discomfort. Of course he batted for a long in Bengaluru. But he'll be fine for this Test," Ryan ten Doeschate was quoted as saying by RevSportz. 

It's worth mentioning that if Gill returns to India's playing XI, either Sarfaraz Khan or KL Rahul will make room for him. Sarfaraz's scintillating ton in Bengaluru is likely to keep him ahead of Rahul in the pecking order. So, Gill's comeback might force India to bench Rahul for this must-win game. 

Will Akash Deep Return To India's Playing XI? 

Meanwhile, Ryan ten Doeschate also stated that promising pacer Akash Deep's participation in the second Test would depend on Pune's playing conditions. 

"Of course we'll be taking a battery of pacers to Australia and in some point you would need them to have game time. He has bowled a lot in between the Test but one thing, he's bowling really really well and not long that he'll back in the XI. It depends on the pitch and how many Pacers we will play here," he added. 

India To Prepare A Slow-Turner For 2nd Test

According to emerging reports, India will likely prepare a black-soil pitch for the second Test against New Zealand. The pitch will have lower bounce than the Bengaluru deck, and the spinners will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome.