Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the second Test against South Africa due to a neck injury, with Rishabh Pant stepping in as captain. The announcement was made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday, just before the match scheduled to take place in Guwahati.

Gill suffered the injury during the first Test in Kolkata, where he retired hurt after facing only three balls. He was later hospitalized for observation but was discharged and traveled with the team to Guwahati. However, he was not deemed fit to play and will now seek further medical assessment in Mumbai.

Pant expressed that Gill was eager to participate in the match despite his injury. "He was very keen on playing this test match, even though his body did not allow it," Pant said. He praised Gill's determination and resilience, highlighting the mindset he wants to instill in the team.

India's batting lineup is now facing challenges, especially after their loss in the first Test, where they were bowled out for just 93 runs while chasing a target of 124. The team is considering options to replace Gill, with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Sai Sudharsan as potential candidates. Pant, however, did not disclose the final playing eleven, stating, "We have taken that in consideration … but we’re going to announce it tomorrow."

As the team prepares for the match, Pant expressed pride in leading the side, calling it a significant moment in his career. He aims to balance conventional strategies with innovative thinking as captain. The upcoming Test at Barsapara Stadium marks its inaugural match, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.

India currently sits fourth in the ICC World Test Championship standings, while South Africa leads the series 1-0. The team hopes to bounce back and level the series in Gill's absence.