Drama unfolded on day two of the first Test between South Africa and India in Kolkata! Indian skipper Shubman Gill suffered a neck spasm while batting, leaving fans anxious about his continued participation. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the injury occurred after Gill played an aggressive sweep shot for a boundary. He was seen holding his neck in pain and was subsequently retired hurt.
The BCCI stated that Gill is being monitored by their medical team, and a decision regarding his participation will be made based on his progress. This is a significant blow for India, especially after they resumed play trailing South Africa by 122 runs.
Meanwhile, South Africa capitalized, bowling India out for 189. Spinner Simon Harmer proved instrumental, taking four wickets and securing a slender 30-run lead for the Proteas. Rishabh Pant (27) and Washington Sundar (29) failed to convert their starts into substantial scores, adding to India's woes.
Key Moments from Day One
Earlier, South Africa won the toss and elected to bat. Despite a promising start from openers Aiden Markram (31) and Ryan Rickelton (23), the Proteas struggled against the pace and skill of Jasprit Bumrah (5/27) and Mohammed Siraj (2/47), ultimately being dismissed for 159.
India ended day one at 37/1, with Marco Jansen claiming the wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal for 12.
Jadeja Reaches Milestone
Amidst the challenges, Ravindra Jadeja achieved a significant milestone, completing 4,000 Test runs and joining an elite all-rounder club. He remained unbeaten at the end of the first session on day two, providing a glimmer of hope for India.
The match remains delicately poised, with South Africa holding a slight advantage. India will be hoping for a swift recovery for Shubman Gill and a strong performance from their bowlers to regain control of the Test.