Shubman Gill seeks specialist help for chronic neck issue ahead of Sri Lanka series
Shubman Gill seeks specialist help for chronic neck issue ahead of Sri Lanka series
As India enter a critical phase in their bid to stay alive in the World Test Championship race, captain Shubman Gill has taken a cautious approach to regaining full fitness by consulting specialists outside the BCCI for a chronic neck problem that has troubled him for months.
A recurring problem
It is learnt that Gill's neck pain first flared up during his first innings in the opening Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. The problem eventually ruled him out of the rest of the series, which India lost 0-2. He also missed an IPL match because of the recurring pain.
"Gill has been battling the neck pain for some time. It flares up every now and then, especially when he bats for a longer period," a BCCI source told Times of India. "He has been consulting specialists outside BCCI for treatment and he is much better now. It's an ongoing process. India felt his absence in that South Africa series. That's why he has taken a cautious approach in addressing the chronic issue."
Sudharsan on track for Galle return
India's No. 3 batter Sai Sudharsan, who has been selected subject to fitness, is also progressing well in his recovery from a hamstring injury. He is set to resume batting at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence next week, with the medical team sharing a positive report regarding his availability for the first Test in Galle.
Sudharsan's return would be a significant boost for India's batting lineup, particularly given the importance of the two-Test series in the broader WTC context. With Bumrah already ruled out and the fast-bowling ranks reshuffled, India will need their batting unit firing on all cylinders against a Sri Lankan side that can be formidable in home conditions.
Cautious approach for a crucial series
The series, beginning August 15, is pivotal for India's WTC qualification hopes. The team management is keen to have both Gill and Sudharsan fully fit, knowing that dropping even a single Test could put immense pressure on their chances of reaching the WTC final next year.
For Gill, the ongoing management of his neck condition will be a key storyline to watch throughout the series, with the captain's ability to bat for long periods potentially determining India's success in challenging subcontinental conditions.