India captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the remainder of the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens after suffering a neck spasm during India’s first-innings batting effort. The 26-year-old walked off the field on Day 2 in visible discomfort and was later taken to a hospital for examination.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed before the start of play on Day 3 that Gill would not take any further part in the match and will continue to remain under medical supervision.

Gill walks off after sudden neck pain

Gill came in to bat after the dismissal of Washington Sundar but lasted just three deliveries. On the third ball, he played a sweep shot for four but immediately grabbed the back of his neck, wincing in pain.

The team physio rushed in, and after several minutes of assessment, the Indian captain walked off the field. He did not return as India were eventually bowled out for 189, taking a slender lead of 30 runs.

Taken to hospital; BCCI issues update

Hours after the incident, visuals showed Gill being moved on a stretcher and transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

In an official statement, the BCCI said:
“Captain Shubman Gill had a neck injury on Day 2 of the ongoing Test against South Africa in Kolkata. He was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of the day’s play. He is currently under observation in the hospital. He will take no further part in the Test match. He will continue to be monitored by the BCCI medical team.”

The setback leaves India without their skipper for the remainder of the match, with vice-captain KL Rahul expected to take over leadership duties on the field.

Workload concerns resurface

Gill’s injury has reignited concerns surrounding his heavy workload. Since being appointed captain across formats earlier this year, he has been involved in an intense cricketing schedule, playing continuously since the Champions Trophy (Feb–Mar 2025).

In 2025 alone, Gill has featured in:

  • Champions Trophy
  • IPL with Gujarat Titans
  • Five-Test home series vs England
  • Asia Cup 2025
  • Two Tests vs West Indies
  • Three ODIs vs Australia
  • Five T20Is vs Australia

Experts have repeatedly questioned whether it is sustainable to groom an all-format captain in today’s cricketing environment, where bio-mechanical stress and tight travel schedules significantly increase injury risk.

Impact on India’s Test plans

Gill’s absence in the ongoing Test is a major blow, given his dual role as India’s captain and top-order batter. With India starting Day 3 defending a fragile lead, the team will need to regroup quickly without their regular leader.

As Gill remains under observation in the hospital, the medical team is expected to take a cautious approach before clearing him for future fixtures, including the second Test of the series.