India captain Shubman Gill retired hurt with neck pain on Day 2 of the 1st Test vs South Africa at Eden Gardens, even as Sourav Ganguly praised him as a ‘perfect captain

On Saturday at Eden Gardens, on Day 2 of the first Test match against South Africa, India skipper Shubman Gill left the field. After seemingly struggling with neck discomfort, Gill exited the field, dealing a serious setback to the Indian squad. The incident occurred on Day 2 in the morning session, only minutes after Gill had come out to bat after Washington Sundar had been removed in the innings’ 35th over. The 25-year-old was gripping his neck while the physiotherapists worked on him, and he appeared to be in pain.

As he stepped out to bat, Gill was greeted with open arms. However, the batter retired injured just three balls into his innings after finding it difficult to move or continue.

India’s current Test and ODI captain, Shubman Gill, was recently praised by former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who described the 26-year-old as “a perfect captain.”

Ganguly praised Gill’s leadership during India’s tour of England when speaking at an event. He also highlighted the difficulty of young captaining under such circumstances. Gill is a superb all-format player, and Ganguly wishes him continued success.

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“Shubman Gill is the ideal leader and an outstanding batter. In England, he was an outstanding captain of India. Going to England and being a captain is difficult for a young boy. He is the ideal captain and will keep leading India with distinction. My best wishes to him. Gill is a great player that can play all formats. “Best wishes to him,” Ganguly remarked.

India’s World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle has gotten off to a great start under Gill’s guidance, as they have won four of their seven Test matches, lost two, and drew one.