India got a scare on Day 2 of the first Test against South Africa after skipper Shubman Gill walked off the field clutching his neck. The opener retired hurt with what looked like a freak injury during a slog sweep, leaving fans worried and the dressing room tense for a moment.
What Exactly Happened?
Gill had faced only three balls when he went for an aggressive slog sweep against Simon Harmer. He connected well and sent the ball sailing for a boundary over backward square leg — but the shot came at a cost.
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As his bat followed through, Gill seemed to suffer a whiplash-like jerk. He instantly grabbed the back of his neck, visibly uncomfortable. The physio rushed in, checked him on the spot, and decided he shouldn’t continue. Gill walked off grimacing, cutting short what was shaping up to be an important innings.
BCCI’s Official Statement
Soon after, the BCCI provided clarity on his condition.
“Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team. A decision on his participation today will be taken as per his progress,” the board said.
In simple terms — there’s no major injury, but his return depends entirely on how quickly the stiffness settles. The medical team is keeping a close watch.
A Session That Suddenly Turned
Gill’s exit came in the 35th over, just after Harmer had dismissed Washington Sundar with a classic off-spinner’s delivery — drifting in, turning away, and catching the outside edge for Aiden Markram at slip.
With that wicket and Gill retiring hurt, India suddenly found themselves in a tricky position. From a steady start, the scoreboard began to look a little shaky. At 79/2 after 35 overs, the hosts were effectively three down while chasing South Africa’s 159.
It wasn’t a collapse — but it definitely shifted the mood of the session.
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Will Gill Bat Again?
That’s the big question, and as of now, the answer is “likely, but not guaranteed.” Neck spasms can ease off within hours or linger longer depending on the severity. If the stiffness reduces and he feels comfortable while rotating his neck, Gill could be back out there.
India will be hoping he does — not just because he’s captain, but because his presence at the top is crucial in a low-scoring Test where every run matters.
More updates are expected from the BCCI medical team later in the day.
