IND vs SA 2025: 3 players who can replace Shubman Gill for second Test

Published - 20 Nov 2025, 18:14 IST | Updated - 20 Nov 2025, 18:18 IST

Indian captain Shubman Gill is likely to be ruled out of the second Test against South Africa due to a neck cramp sustained during the opening match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Although the injury is not considered serious, medical experts have advised the batter to rest and avoid further strain. As a result, he may not take the field on November 22 for the series decider.

With Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan already in the squad and likely to feature in the playing XI, India will need to add one more top-order option as Gill’s replacement. The team lacked a batter in Kolkata, which eventually costed them the match against the Proteas. However, Guwahati is their only chance to save themselves from a series whitewash at home.

Maharashtra batter Ruturaj Gaikwad stands out as one of the strongest contenders for a call-up. He has been in sublime touch across formats, excelling in domestic cricket as well as in India A fixtures. In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, Gaikwad has already scored two half-centuries and a well-crafted century in just two matches.

His performances in the India A three-match ODI series were equally impressive, where he registered a century and a fifty against competitive bowling attacks. Gaikwad’s ability to adapt to different surfaces, build an innings, and maintain composure under pressure makes him a compelling option to replace Gill.