Is Shubman Gill Unavailable for the 5th T20I After Foot Injury?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has been sidelined for the final T20I against South Africa due to a right foot injury. This development raises questions about his future in the T20 format amidst rising competition.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill ruled out of the final T20I due to injury.
- Sanju Samson steps in to replace him as opener.
- Gill's recent performance in T20Is has been underwhelming.
- The injury raises concerns about Gill's future in the T20 format.
- Healthy competition exists within the Indian T20I squad.
Ahmedabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has been officially ruled out of the fifth and final T20I against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday due to an impact injury to his right foot. This injury occurred during a net session on December 16 in Lucknow.
In his absence, Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter, will take his place in the playing eleven, opening alongside left-hander Abhishek Sharma. This adjustment could have been made during the fourth T20I at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, which was unfortunately cancelled due to heavy fog.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stated, "Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right foot while batting in the nets on December 16 in Lucknow. After consulting with a specialist and receiving treatment from the BCCI medical team, he is improving but will not be available for selection for the final T20I in Ahmedabad."
This situation arises as Gill’s position in the Indian T20I lineup is currently being scrutinized, especially with fierce competition from Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal. At 25, Gill has been India's preferred opener alongside Abhishek since he became vice-captain in T20Is. He took on this role following his appointment as Test captain, and he is also set to lead in ODIs.
However, since returning from the Asia Cup in the UAE, Gill has faced challenges in the T20 format, managing only 291 runs across 15 innings this year, with a strike rate of 137.26 and an average of 24.25.
Before entering this T20I series, Gill was recovering from a neck injury he sustained during the first Test against the Proteas at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and completed his rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the impact of Shubman Gill's injury on both the team dynamics and his individual career. While India navigates the challenges of T20Is, the presence of talented players like Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal adds healthy competition. We support the team's decisions as they strive for excellence on the international stage.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Shubman Gill's injury?
Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right foot while batting in the nets on December 16.
Who will replace Shubman Gill in the T20I?
Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will replace Shubman Gill and open alongside Abhishek Sharma.
How has Shubman Gill performed in T20Is this year?
This year, Shubman Gill has scored 291 runs in 15 innings, with a strike rate of 137.26 and an average of 24.25.
When did Shubman Gill get injured?
He was injured during a net session on December 16 in Lucknow.
What is the significance of Gill's injury for the Indian team?
Gill's injury raises questions about his position in the T20 format, especially with increasing competition from other players.
