Reports: Vice captain Shubman Gill doubtful for third T20I against Sri Lanka

India's star opener and vice-captain Shubman Gill was sidelined for the second T20I of the ongoing series against Sri Lanka due to a neck spasm. This development has raised questions about his fitness and availability for the remainder of the series.

Gill's absence came as a shock, particularly after his impressive performance in the series opener. The 24-year-old had silenced critics with a brilliant 16-ball 34, contributing significantly to India's record-breaking powerplay score of 74 runs against Sri Lanka. This innings was especially noteworthy as it marked a departure from Gill's typically conservative approach, addressing recent concerns about his strike rate in the shortest format of the game.

Team captain Suryakumar Yadav revealed the nature of Gill's ailment, explaining that a neck spasm had forced the vice-captain out of the second match. Sanju Samson was brought in as a replacement, opening the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Reports suggest that Gill's time on the sidelines might extend beyond just one match.

"A call will be taken on Shubman Gill before tomorrow’s game, possibly a couple hours before, currently being assessed," a post on 'X' handle, by RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan hinted at Gill missing you on featuring in the next T20I.

A call will be taken on Shubhman gill before tomorrow’s game - possibly a couple hour before - currently being assessed pic.twitter.com/DL7EHcyCeI

— रोहित जुगलान Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) July 29, 2024

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Gill likely to be rested with T20I game being dead rubber

Given that India has already clinched the T20I series against Sri Lanka, the team management might opt for a cautious approach with Shubman Gill's recovery. With an upcoming ODI series against the same opponents, resting the young star for the final T20I could be an apt decision to ensure his full fitness for the 50-over format.

Gill's potential absence opens up opportunities for other players, particularly Samson, who struggled in his chance to open the batting in the second T20I. Samson's golden duck highlighted the challenges of filling Gill's shoes at the top of the order. With his place in the T20I side potentially at stake, Samson will be eager to contribute if given another opportunity in the final match of the series on July 30.