BCCI Clears Shubman Gill to Join Squad for 2nd Test

By Harshit - Nov 19, 2025 06:12 PM
Last updated on Nov 19, 2025 06:34 PM

The upcoming second Test between India and South Africa has taken an unexpected turn as uncertainty clouds the participation of Indian skipper Shubman Gill. Despite suffering a painful neck injury during the opening Test in Kolkata, Gill has been cleared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to travel with the team to Guwahati. His availability, however, remains undecided, leaving fans eager for clarity. The development has intensified attention on India’s squad combination, especially with the sudden withdrawal of all-rounder Nitish Reddy from the India A series in Rajkot.

Gill’s injury has raised concerns about India’s batting depth heading into a crucial match where a strong response is essential. While he was hospitalised after retiring hurt in the first innings, hopes remain that his recovery may progress enough for him to participate. The BCCI medical team will closely monitor his condition before making the final call. In the meantime, Nitish Reddy’s call-up to the national contingent has sparked conversations about his potential debut, giving the situation an intriguing twist.

As both teams gear up for the high-pressure face-off starting November 22, discussions revolve around Gill’s fitness, Reddy’s readiness, and the overall team dynamic that could shape the match. The excitement builds not only on the field but also among fans and analysts eager to see how India responds after the setback in Kolkata.

Shubman Gill Cleared To Travel Amid Injury Doubts

In an official announcement, the BCCI confirmed that Shubman Gill will travel with the Indian Test squad to Guwahati. The 26-year-old opener suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the first Test in Kolkata, forcing him to retire hurt and later seek hospital treatment. His absence in the second innings contributed to India’s narrow 30-run loss, intensifying concerns about the team’s top-order stability.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia noted that Gill had shown positive signs of recovery during treatment. However, his actual participation in the second Test remains uncertain and will depend entirely on medical evaluations conducted over the next few days. The ambiguity around his fitness has left the team management considering alternate plans heading into the match.

The second Test, scheduled to commence on November 22, demands a stable lineup, particularly after India’s defeat in the opening encounter. Gill’s presence at the top is crucial, but the team must prepare for possible contingencies. This uncertainty has led selectors to look closely at available options who can step in if Gill is ruled out.

Nitish Reddy Withdrawn From India A Squad

With doubts surrounding Gill’s availability, rising all-rounder Nitish Reddy has been pulled out of the India A series against South Africa A. The move highlights the seriousness of preparations underway for the second Test. Reddy, who had been participating in the Rajkot fixtures, was asked to report immediately, signalling that he may play a more significant role than initially expected.

Although Reddy reached Kolkata on Monday evening, he did not participate in Tuesday’s training session, fuelling speculation about his inclusion in the main squad. The right-handed batting all-rounder has already scored a Test century, showcasing his potential to contribute both with the bat and ball if called upon.

Selectors view Reddy as a promising talent capable of reinforcing the team’s middle order while adding depth to the bowling attack. If Gill fails to recover in time, Reddy’s chances of breaking into the playing XI at Guwahati increase substantially.

Impact On India’s Strategy For The Second Test

The management faces several tough decisions as it prepares for the crucial match. With Gill’s participation in doubt, the team must re-evaluate its batting order. While established names offer stability, the possibility of introducing a young and energetic all-rounder could bring fresh balance to the side.

India’s narrow loss in Kolkata underscored the need for a strong and adaptable batting lineup. Gill’s absence exposed vulnerabilities that South Africa’s bowlers capitalised on effectively. Adding a dynamic player like Nitish Reddy could provide both resilience and flexibility, potentially shifting the momentum in India’s favor.

Beyond the batting order, India’s fielding and tactical setup may also undergo changes. The management will likely monitor Reddy’s adaptability in high-pressure situations, assessing whether his inclusion strengthens their chances of levelling the series.

What Fans Can Expect Ahead of the Match

The build-up to the second Test is buzzing with anticipation as fans eagerly await updates on Shubman Gill’s fitness. His presence would significantly boost India’s confidence, but even in his absence, the team is exploring promising alternatives. Nitish Reddy’s potential elevation has added a fresh narrative to the series, drawing attention to emerging talents in Indian cricket.

With only days left before the match, team combinations, pitch reports, and fitness assessments are expected to dominate discussions. Gill’s medical evaluations will play a decisive role in shaping the final lineup and setting the tone for the match.

As India looks to bounce back after the loss in Kolkata, the second Test promises intensity, suspense, and a display of resilience. Whether it is Gill’s return or Reddy’s rise, fans can look forward to compelling cricket as the team aims to level the series and regain momentum.

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