India’s wait for the return of their regular No.3 batter, Shubman Gill, might extend as he is reportedly doubtful for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin on December 6 in Adelaide. Gill, recovering from a fractured left thumb sustained during an intra-squad match, is expected to require additional rest and match practice before returning to action.
Injury Update: Gill’s Road to Recovery
The 24-year-old opener missed the series opener in Perth and has been advised 10-14 days of rest by medical specialists. According to a report in The Times of India, Gill will not participate in the upcoming pink-ball practice match in Canberra this weekend, further dimming his chances of playing in the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval.
“Gill’s injury is still under evaluation. Even if his thumb heals in time, he’ll need quality practice before being considered for a Test match,” a source mentioned in the report. Former selector Jatin Paranjape also commented on the situation, stating, “Finger injuries like this can take two to four weeks to heal. It won’t be surprising if he ends up missing two to three matches.”
Gill’s Role at No.3
Since making his debut during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia, Gill has become a vital part of the team across formats. Notably, his memorable innings at the Gabba in Brisbane played a significant role in India’s historic series win.
After being moved to No.3, Gill has further solidified his position in the Test setup, scoring 924 runs in 25 innings at an average of 42.07, which surpasses his career average of 36.73. His consistent performances at this position came after the team transitioned from Cheteshwar Pujara.
India’s Batting Plans Without Gill
Gill’s injury, coupled with Rohit Sharma’s absence in the first Test, forced India to make adjustments to their batting order. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the innings in Perth, with the pair delivering a record-breaking 200-run stand in the second innings.
With Rohit now back in the squad, he is expected to open alongside Jaiswal. If Gill remains unavailable, Rahul is likely to move to No.3. This leaves limited opportunities for Devdutt Padikkal, who was added to the squad as cover for the first Test.
India’s Quest for Another Historic Win
After their remarkable 295-run victory in Perth, India will look to build on their momentum in Adelaide. A win in the pink-ball Test would make India the first team to defeat Australia in a day-night Test on home soil, adding another chapter to their legacy of breaking records Down Under.
Gill’s absence would undoubtedly be a setback, but India’s top order, buoyed by Jaiswal and Rahul’s form, seems well-prepared to rise to the challenge.
