November 18, 2025 : India’s plans for the second Test against South Africa are clouded by uncertainty after captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury during the first match at Eden Gardens. The BCCI confirmed that Gill is being closely monitored as he recovers from a neck spasm. Reports now suggest that Gill’s participation in the forthcoming second Test in Guwahati is doubtful, forcing team management to explore backup options at the crucial No. 4 batting slot.
Gill retired hurt early in Kolkata, leaving India a batter down during their critical fourth-innings chase. While he has since been discharged from hospital and rejoined the squad for the Guwahati Test, medical staff will assess his fitness before giving the green light.
Who Can Step In at No. 4?
With Gill’s availability uncertain, several candidates are now under consideration to bat at No. 4:
- B Sai Sudharsan: Already experienced in the Test middle order, Sudharsan is a natural contender.
- Devdutt Padikkal: The left-hander has looked promising in domestic and A-team cricket.
- Karun Nair: Known for his double-century in the Ranji Trophy, Nair offers a like-for-like replacement option.
- Sarfaraz Khan: A gritty performer, Sarfaraz could bring solidity to the middle order.
Moreover, Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was earlier part of India A, has been called back into the squad ahead of the Guwahati Test. His recall suggests that the selectors are keeping their options open.
Risk and Reward
Choosing the right No. 4 is critical. The Guwahati pitch is expected to offer variable bounce, and India will need a dependable batsman who can anchor innings and counter both pace and spin. A misstep here could cost India dearly.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir faces a delicate balancing act: whether to play it safe with experience or back younger talent with long-term potential. Several commentators believe that investing in players like Sudharsan or Padikkal could strengthen India’s middle order for years to come.
Implications Beyond This Series
If Gill’s injury sidelines him for longer, India’s leadership and batting structure could be under pressure. His absence would not only force a reshuffle but also test India’s bench strength — something they’ll need to lean on as they look ahead to other international assignments.
A solid performance from his replacement might lead selectors to re-evaluate the No. 4 role for future Tests, even when Gill returns — particularly if they endorse a more flexible, multi-batter middle order.
Summary
Shubman Gill’s neck injury casts doubt on his availability for India’s 2nd Test, leaving the team to consider Sudharsan, Padikkal, Nair, or Sarfaraz as last-minute No. 4 options.