Shubman Gill Suffers Neck Spasm During First Test Against South Africa — BCCI Issues Medical Update | Kolkata | November 11, 2025
A worrying moment struck Indian cricket fans on Day 2 of the first Test match between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, when captain Shubman Gill was forced to leave the field after suffering a sudden neck spasm while batting during India’s first innings.
The incident occurred in the morning session when Gill, who looked in good touch, attempted a sweep shot off South African spinner Keshav Maharaj and appeared to jerk his neck awkwardly while completing the movement. Moments later, he paused mid-pitch, showing visible discomfort, and after consulting the team physio, decided to walk back to the dressing room retired hurt.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later confirmed that the skipper was being attended to by the medical team and that his condition was “stable but under observation.”
🏏 The Incident
India had begun the day in a commanding position at 128 for 2, with Gill batting fluently on 42 off 61 balls, showing his trademark elegance and control. However, during the 29th over of the innings, as he tried to sweep Maharaj’s turning delivery, he appeared to twist his upper body sharply, causing instant pain around his neck and shoulder area.
Play was halted briefly as the team’s physio, Nitin Patel, attended to him. Despite initial attempts to stretch and resume, Gill was unable to continue and chose to retire hurt — a decision that reflected both his discomfort and India’s cautious approach to prevent aggravation of the injury.
According to sources close to the team, Gill reported “stiffness and a mild pull in the trapezius muscle” — an area that can be sensitive to sudden rotational movements, particularly in humid conditions like Kolkata’s.
🏥 BCCI’s Official Update
In an evening press release, the BCCI Media Department stated:
“Shubman Gill experienced a neck spasm while batting on Day 2 of the ongoing Test against South Africa. The BCCI medical team is monitoring his condition.”
The statement eased some concerns among fans, clarifying that the injury was not serious enough to require immediate scans or hospitalization. However, a final call on whether he would bat in the second innings or field later in the Test would be taken after physiotherapy sessions and further medical review.
India’s Position in the Match
Despite Shubman Gill’s Suffers Neck Spasm During First Test Against South Africa s premature exit, India maintained control of the match thanks to a gritty partnership between KL Rahul and Washington Sundar, who steadied the innings. India finished the day at 268 for 5, extending their lead over South Africa to over 100 runs after having bowled the visitors out for 159 on Day 1.
Bumrah’s five-wicket haul had earlier given India the upper hand, and Gill’s fluent start further strengthened their dominance — until the injury interruption added an unexpected twist.
Shubman Gill’s Suffers Neck Spasm During First Test Against South Africa ’s Growing Role and Pressure
This Test series marks Shubman Gill’s first full-time captaincy stint in red-ball cricket after being appointed India’s youngest Test skipper earlier this year. The stylish right-hander from Punjab has been a cornerstone of India’s top order in all formats and was expected to lead from the front with the bat.
Gill’s injury momentarily casts uncertainty over India’s plans for the remainder of the Test, though his form and leadership have earned him immense support within the team.
🔍 Looking Ahead
India will hope for a swift recovery for their captain as they push for a commanding lead in the match and the series. With upcoming fixtures in Visakhapatnam and Dharamshala, the management will be cautious not to risk further injury to one of their most valuable players.
For now, all eyes remain on Eden Gardens’ balcony — where Gill watched the remainder of the day’s play with an ice pack wrapped around his neck, offering a thumbs-up to the crowd as chants of “Shubman, Shubman!” echoed across the stands.
It was a small gesture but a big reassurance — the skipper might be hurt, but he’s far from down.
Follow BiGG Sports News for more sports stories
About the Author
