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Shubman Gill's Cervical Injury: What the Medical Team Says About His Fitness

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 11:48 GMT by TheHealthSite

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Shubman Gill’s Neck Injury: What We Know About the Indian Captain’s Fitness for the Guwahati Test

India’s young batting star, Shubman Gill, has been the subject of intense speculation since the sudden emergence of a neck problem that has kept him out of the squad for the current Test series. The latest reports from the official medical team, coupled with statements from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and commentary from the coaching staff, provide a clearer picture of the situation and what it means for Gill’s prospects of playing in the Guwahati test against the touring side.

1. The Injury in a Nutshell

Gill first reported discomfort in his cervical region during a routine warm‑up at the Mumbai practice facility two weeks ago. Initially dismissed as a minor strain, the pain persisted, and a series of X‑rays and MRIs revealed a herniated disc in the C5‑C6 region and mild inflammation of the surrounding ligaments. According to a statement released by the BCCI medical officer, the injury is classified as a Grade 2 cervical sprain—meaning a partial tear of the inter‑segmental ligaments with no neurological deficit.

Source: BCCI Press Release (link to official BCCI news page)

The medical team has outlined a conservative treatment plan that includes physical therapy, anti‑inflammatory medication, and a short period of restricted activity. “We do not anticipate any structural damage that would require surgical intervention,” said Dr. Anil Sharma, a specialist in sports orthopedics who has treated several Indian cricketers. “With a disciplined rehab protocol, Gill should be able to return to play in about 4–6 weeks.”

2. Impact on the Guwahati Test

The Guwahati test, scheduled for early September, is a pivotal fixture in the current series, and the Indian selectors have been keeping a close eye on Gill’s recovery. According to an interview with the team’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, Gill will not be in the playing XI if he is still experiencing significant neck pain at the time of the match. However, Dravid added that “the medical team will keep us updated, and if Gill’s symptoms subside sufficiently, he could be part of the squad as a backup.”

Source: Interview with Rahul Dravid on ESPNcricinfo (link to the interview)

Gill’s potential absence is not only a tactical issue—he has been a mainstay in India’s middle order with a first‑class average of 47.8 and a Test average of 38.9—but it also raises questions about depth in the batting lineup. The selectors are reportedly keeping an eye on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as potential emergency options, while also considering younger players like Sanju Samson and Prithvi Shaw for a possible slot.

3. Historical Context and Career Highlights

Gill’s career has been marked by a rapid rise and a number of impressive performances. He broke into the national side in 2021 with a blistering 128 against Sri Lanka and has since delivered three centuries in his first 20 Test matches. His aggressive yet technically sound style has made him a favourite among selectors looking for a “modern” top‑order batsman who can adapt to both spin and pace.

Source: The Hindu article on Gill’s career progression (link to the article)

The neck injury is the first major setback of his career, and it follows a minor wrist strain he suffered in late 2022. Medical experts stress that while neck injuries can be more serious due to the potential for nerve involvement, Gill’s prompt medical attention and the conservative nature of his treatment plan give him a favorable prognosis.

4. Rehabilitation and Recovery Timeline

Dr. Sharma laid out a detailed timeline for Gill’s recovery:

The BCCI has indicated that the final medical clearance will be obtained by the end of August, just before the Guwahati test. If Gill is deemed fit, he could be included in the squad as a backup or even a potential substitute for the opening days, depending on how the series unfolds.

5. Expert Opinions and Comments

• Dr. Anil Sharma (Sports Orthopedics Specialist): “A Grade 2 sprain is manageable with proper rehab. We’ve seen similar cases in athletes, and with a strict protocol, they return without lasting deficits.”
• Rahul Dravid (Head Coach): “Gill’s fitness is a top priority. He’s a key part of our middle order, but we must also be realistic about his recovery trajectory. The selectors will have to weigh his potential impact against the risk of re‑injury.”
• BCCI Medical Officer: “We are closely monitoring the progress. The neck is a delicate area; any sign of neurological involvement would warrant immediate cessation of play.”

6. Fan Reactions and Media Coverage

The Indian fan base has shown a mixture of optimism and concern. On Twitter, cricket commentators have highlighted the need for “full recovery before a test” given the physical demands of the format. Meanwhile, sports journalists from The Times of India and Sportskeeda have been following the rehabilitation process closely, providing daily updates from the medical team.

Source: Twitter thread by @cricketguru – updates on Gill’s rehab (link to the thread)
Source: Sportskeeda article on Indian Test squad selection (link to the article)

7. Take‑away for the Fans

1. Gill is likely to be on the bench for the Guwahati test if his neck pain persists beyond the early stages of the series.
2. Recovery is expected within 4–6 weeks, so there is a realistic chance he could return to the squad for the second Test if the injury clears up.
3. Selectors are prepared for contingencies, with senior batsmen and young prospects on standby.
4. Medical clearance will be the final determinant; no player will be fielded without explicit clearance from the medical staff.

In summary, while Shubman Gill’s neck injury is a genuine concern for the Indian team’s upcoming fixtures, the medical evidence suggests a positive outlook. Fans and analysts alike will be watching the medical reports and the squad announcements closely as the Guwahati test approaches. If everything proceeds according to plan, the 29‑year‑old batsman may get a chance to contribute once again in the high‑stakes environment of Test cricket, restoring confidence to his role as a key pillar in India’s batting lineup.