GALLE — India's captain Shubman Gill has received the green light to play in the series-opening Test against Sri Lanka starting August 15 in Galle, putting an end to lingering fitness concerns following a minor injury scare.
The stylish right-hander raised anxiety levels in the Indian camp when he sustained a blow to his right hand during a net session ahead of the three-day warm-up match against a Sri Lanka XI. As a safety measure, the team management opted not to field Gill on the opening day or during India’s first innings of the practice game.
Addressing the media, India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule put all speculation to rest, clarifying that the skipper's absence on day one was entirely precautionary.
"It was just a precaution more than anything else, and he has been absolutely fine," Bahutule stated. "He has been continuing his training as usual. The management simply decided that taking the precaution of sitting him out on the first day was the prudent thing to do."
Gill dispelled any lingering doubts on the final day of the warm-up encounter when he walked out to bat in India’s second innings. Chasing a target of 207, the captain struck a crisp 44 off 54 balls, a knock laced with seven boundaries, demonstrating smooth movement and comfortable hand-eye coordination. He has since been actively participating in intensity-packed training sessions in the nets.
Bahutule lauded Gill’s work ethic and meticulous preparation as India gear up for a challenging subcontinental assignment.
"Shubman takes his preparation very seriously and is extremely meticulous," Bahutule added. "He understands what each series demands and tailors his approach to counter the specific strengths of the opposition bowling attack."
Gill's quick recovery arrives as a major boost for the Indian squad, which aims to establish momentum and start the two-match Test series on a winning note at Galle.
