KOLKATA: India captain Shubman Gill will not take further part in the ongoing opening Test against South Africa after he was forced to retire with a neck injury in the first innings, the Indian cricket board (BCCI) said on Sunday.
Gill hit a four before walking off the field, rubbing his neck and not batting again as India posted 189 in reply to South Africa’s first innings total of 159.
He was then taken to a hospital and placed under observation, the BCCI said.
“He will not take part in the Test match again. He will remain under the supervision of the BCCI medical team,” the BCCI said, without clarifying whether Gill would be fit to play the second Test in Guwahati starting on November 22.
Ravindra Jadeja’s four-wicket burst has put India on course for a win within three days after a hectic 15-wicket day in the low-scoring opening Test against South Africa on Saturday.
India were in the box-seat after bowling out South Africa for 159 at Eden Gardens, where inconsistent bouncing was anathema to the shotmakers from both sides.
This was reflected in India’s response as they managed to maintain a lead well below their own expectations.
South Africa ended day two at 93 for seven – just 63 runs ahead with three wickets in hand.
Captain Temba Bavuma led their battle with 29 not out and with Corbin Bosch on one side on the other.
Jadeja came chasing South Africa with the ball after the Proteas came into bat for the second time in the match.
After Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Ryan Rickelton for 11, South African frontline batters surrendered to Jadeja’s (4-29) brutal left-arm spin.
“Obviously we have to try to get as many as possible and get above 100,” Harmer told reporters.
“If we can get to 150, that would be incredible, but obviously it’s quite difficult.”
