Extensive rehabilitation helps Shubman Gill recover from his neck injury
What's the story
Indian batter Shubman Gill is set to feature in the impending T20I series against South Africa, starting December 9 in Cuttack. Gill, India's T20I vice-captain, has recovered from a severe neck injury he sustained while playing a sweep shot during the 1st Test against South Africa last month. The complicated injury had forced him to miss the 2nd Test in Guwahati and the following ODI series.
Recovery process
Gill cleared to play SA T20Is
Gill underwent extensive rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He has now been cleared to participate in the five-match T20I series against South Africa, which begins on Tuesday. Speaking about his recovery on bcci.tv, Gill said, "I'm feeling much better. I think the day that I came here, from that day till today, I've had quite a bit of skill sessions and some training sessions."
Training details
Gill's training and rehabilitation at BCCI CoE
The BCCI shared footage of Gill's training and rehabilitation under the guidance of strength and conditioning coach S Rajnikanth. In the video, he can be seen shadow practicing the sweep shot. He also spoke about the time spent at the National Cricket Academy during his early years. Notably, the facility has now been converted into a huge CoE.
Twitter Post
WATCH: Gill talks about his CoE experience
🏏 @ShubmanGill completed his recovery at the BCCI Centre of Excellence culminating with skill and fitness training.
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 8, 2025
In this interaction, he reflects on the world-class facilities at the CoE and how it has shaped his formative years. #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/aoxMODnB11
Position
Gill set to open with Abhishek Sharma
Ahead of the series opener, Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clarified why Gill is being preferred over Sanju Samson at the top of the order. Speaking to reporters, Suryakumar said that Gill's consistent performances and his previous role in the team made him a deserving candidate for an opener's role. Gill is expected to open the batting with Abhishek Sharma throughout the five-match series.