Shubman Gill Ruled Out of First Test Against Australia

PERTH: Indian batter Shubman Gill is set to miss the first Test of the five-match series against Australia after injuring his thumb during a practice match on Saturday, Indian media reported.

Gill, who sustained a hairline fracture on his left thumb while fielding in the slips, underwent scans that confirmed the injury. “He hurt his thumb while fielding in the slips. Scans revealed a hairline fracture. He’ll sit out the first Test but is expected to be fit for the second,” a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed.

Adding to India’s challenges, captain Rohit Sharma is also unlikely to play in the opening Test. Rohit and his wife, Ritika Sajdeh, recently welcomed their second child, and the skipper is expected to spend time with his family before heading to Australia.

“He wants to spend some time with his family and avoid a rushed arrival before the first Test in Perth, which is known for its bouncy pitch. Rohit is likely to join the team in time for the second Test in Adelaide. There’s a significant gap between the two matches, allowing him to acclimate and participate in the tour game at Canberra starting November 30,” the source added.

With Gill ruled out and Rohit unavailable, India must find an opening partner for Yashasvi Jaiswal and decide on their No. 3 batter for the first Test.