In Guwahati, on November 21 (NationPress), Rishabh Pant is set to lead India in the upcoming second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Stadium this Saturday. Pant's leadership comes as a result of regular captain Shubman Gill facing a neck injury sustained during the first Test held at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

“Shubman was eager to participate in the match. His determination was evident even when his body was not cooperating. We have finalized who will replace Shubman in the playing eleven. The selected player is aware of his inclusion,” Pant stated in a pre-match conference on Friday.

Despite traveling with the Indian squad to Guwahati, Gill's participation had always been uncertain. Reports indicate that he will likely be released from the team to rest and consult a specialist in Mumbai regarding his recovery plan.

This situation raises serious doubts about his availability for the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas, commencing on November 30. For now, Pant will become India’s 38th Test captain and only the second wicketkeeper-batsman after MS Dhoni to helm the team in Test matches.

Pant is now poised to be India's seventh Test captain in the last five years, and his challenge will be to secure a series-tying victory in Guwahati’s inaugural Test, following a 30-run loss in Kolkata.

“I don’t want to overanalyze. We faced a tough first Test and must do everything necessary to win this match. Captaining in a one-off match isn’t ideal, but I am grateful to the BCCI for this privilege,” Pant remarked.

“Overthinking big moments can be counterproductive. I aim to combine traditional strategies with innovative thinking. Striking a balance between both aspects is my goal as captain,” Pant concluded.