Yes, The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that Shubman Gill will accompany the Indian team to Guwahati for the second Test against South Africa national cricket team, but his actual participation in the match remains undecided as he continues to recover from a neck injury sustained in the first Test.

BCCI Provides Update on Gill’s Condition

The BCCI stated on Wednesday that Gill will fly from Kolkata to Guwahati as part of the squad for the second Test, which begins on November 22. He had suffered a neck injury during the first Test and was hospitalised in Kolkata. The board confirmed he has responded well to treatment and is cleared to travel.
However, crucially, the BCCI clarified that they have not ruled him out from playing — a final decision on his availability will be made closer to the match.

When and How the Injury Happened

The injury occurred late on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test at Eden Gardens when Gill, after slog-sweeping Simon Harmer for a boundary, appeared to suffer a whiplash-type reaction and clutched the back of his neck, visibly struggling to turn his head. He faced just three balls before retiring hurt and was taken to hospital wearing a cervical collar as a precaution.
He was kept under observation and discharged the following day. The BCCI confirmed that he is now travelling with the team on 19 November, 2025 and will continue to be monitored by the medical team.

Why this Matters for India’s Line-up

India’s batting faltered in the opening Test, where they were bowled out chasing 124 for just 93, losing the match by 30 runs. Gill’s presence is considered important for stabilising the top order and giving India their best chance to bounce back.
If Gill isn’t available, the team management may have to rethink the batting order and possibly bring in a replacement. Names like Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan were seen practising hard during an optional session in Kolkata. Former India opener Aakash Chopra even suggested bringing in Ruturaj Gaikwad to avoid having seven left-handers in the XI, as left-hand/right-hand combinations matter in team balance.

The Workload Factor and Management Concerns

Gill’s fitness is also under scrutiny because of his heavy recent workload. After being appointed T20I vice-captain, he played in the Asia Cup, featured in two home Tests against the West Indies, led India in an ODI series in Australia, played all five T20Is down under, and immediately joined the Test squad in Kolkata. The BCCI and team management will likely factor in his workload before risking him in the next Test.

What’s Next?

Team India will leave for Guwahati as scheduled with Gill in tow. The medical team will continue to monitor his condition, and a final call regarding his inclusion in the playing XI will be taken in the lead-up to the match. If he is declared fit, it will boost India’s batting significantly. If not, they will need to act quickly to plug the gap.

FAQs

Q1. Is Shubman Gill ruled out of the second Test?
No, he is not ruled out yet. The BCCI confirmed he will travel with the team, and his participation is still under consideration.

Q2. When is the second Test between India and South Africa scheduled?
The second Test is scheduled to start on 22 November 2025 in Guwahati.

Q3. What caused Gill’s injury?
Gill suffered a neck injury during the first Test at Eden Gardens when he appeared to suffer a whiplash-like movement while batting, and was hospitalised afterward.

Q4. What are India’s alternatives if Gill cannot play?
Potential alternatives include Devdutt Padikkal, Sai Sudharsan and possibly right-hander Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been suggested by experts to avoid stacking too many left-handers in the XI.

Q5. Why is workload a concern for Gill?
Gill has been involved in multiple formats recently — Tests, ODIs, T20Is — and has had little rest. The BCCI and team management may be cautious about risking him immediately.