India captain Shubman Gill has travelled with the squad to Guwahati ahead of the second Test against South Africa, a development that has sparked cautious optimism but not certainty about his participation. Gill suffered a neck spasm during the first Test in Kolkata, forcing him to retire hurt early in his innings before being taken to a hospital for scans. Although later discharged, the severity of the stiffness raised doubts about whether he would recover in time for the next match.
The fact that Gill made the trip itself is a positive sign. Notably, he arrived in Guwahati without the neck brace he had been seen wearing earlier, suggesting some progress in his recovery. The BCCI’s medical team has reportedly observed good early responses to treatment, enough to approve his travel with the squad. Still, his availability for the Test will depend on how he responds to physical activity during training sessions in the days leading up to the match.
The medical and support staff are being extremely cautious. India’s management is aware that pushing Gill too quickly could aggravate the injury, particularly given the demands of Test cricket. Scheduled assessments will determine whether his range of motion, stability, and pain levels are sufficient to let him bat and field safely. If any uncertainty remains, India are prepared to rest him rather than risk a long-term setback.
If Gill does not take the field, Rishabh Pant is expected to assume captaincy responsibilities. Pant has already been involved in leadership discussions and is seen as the natural stand-in option. His aggressive mindset and experience could help steady the team after the narrow defeat in the first Test. India may also consider adjusting the balance of their batting order by bringing in an additional right-hander, given the squad’s heavy left-handed presence.
Gill is still expected to participate in at least light training, giving the medical team a better picture of his match readiness. Even a brief nets session would offer clues about his ability to rotate his neck freely, play short balls, and withstand extended spells of concentration—crucial elements for a top-order Test batter. For now, India remain hopeful but realistic. The captain’s presence in Guwahati is promising, but the final decision will come only after observing how he handles the workload over the next forty-eight hours.
The team, meanwhile, is trying to maintain focus amid the uncertainty. With South Africa already 1–0 ahead in the series and India facing pressure to bounce back, clarity around Gill’s fitness will shape both strategy and morale. Whether he plays or not, the second Test is set up as a pivotal moment in India’s campaign, and Gill’s situation remains one of the biggest storylines going into Guwahati.
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