Kolkata, Nov 15 (NationPress) The Indian cricket team faced a setback when their captain, Shubman Gill, was compelled to retire hurt during the second day of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens on Saturday due to an unexpected neck spasm. The incident took place on the fifth delivery of the 35th over when Gill executed a remarkable sweep shot off South African off-spinner Simon Harmer for a boundary. However, shortly after, he visibly grimaced and grasped his neck in pain while remaining upright.

The Indian team's physio, Kamlesh Jain, rushed to attend to Gill, who was holding the left side of his neck. Appearing stiff and unable to turn his neck comfortably, he exited the field, retiring hurt with a score of four runs off just three balls.

In his absence, vice-captain Rishabh Pant took to the crease, receiving a warm reception from the crowd, marking his return to international cricket after recovering from a fractured right foot sustained during the Manchester Test against England last July.

Gill's injury surfaced at a pivotal moment as India aimed to gain an upper hand against the Proteas, who had been bowled out for 159 on the first day. His further participation in the match hinges on medical evaluation, yet the Indian team and its devoted supporters remain hopeful that the neck spasm is not severe.

Following Gill's departure to the dressing room, there was a flurry of activity between the team dugout and the dressing area, with medical personnel frequently coming and going. Gill had previously experienced a similar stiff neck before India's first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, which ultimately sidelined him from that match.