NEW DELHI: Star Indian batter Shubman Gill, who missed the primary Check in opposition to New Zealand in Bengaluru resulting from neck stiffness, is prone to return for the second Check, beginning on Thursday.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir supplied a optimistic replace throughout a pre-match press convention, suggesting that the gifted opener is in rivalry for a spot within the taking part in XI.
India, trailing 1-Zero within the sequence, will hope Gill’s presence bolsters their batting lineup as they purpose to stage the sequence.
“Gill was injured within the final recreation. Because of the damage, he couldn’t play, however he has been in nice contact,” Gambhir instructed reporters on Wednesday. “We’ll resolve tomorrow and no matter workforce we resolve, they will exit to win.”
The 25-year-old’s absence was felt within the first Check, the place India was bowled out for 46 within the first innings — their third-lowest rating in Check historical past.
Regardless of a promising second-inning effort, India misplaced the match by eight wickets. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate additionally indicated that Gill’s health has improved.
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“He seems to be out there for the subsequent recreation,” ten Doeschate stated on Tuesday. “There was some discomfort, however he batted for lengthy classes within the nets at Bengaluru. I believe he’ll be positive to play in Pune.”
India captain Rohit Sharma might be desirous to have Gill again within the lineup, particularly after the struggles with consistency within the high order.
With the second Check set to start in Pune on Thursday, India will hope that Gill’s potential return can present the spark they should bounce again and stage the three-match sequence.