Shubman Gill’s Fitness: Key for India’s T20 Squad vs South Africa

The Indian selection committee is set to convene in Raipur to finalize the 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, scheduled to commence on December 9. A major point of discussion will be the fitness of vice-captain Shubman Gill, who sustained a neck injury during the Kolkata Test. Gill has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after a period of rest in his hometown of Chandigarh. His availability for the T20Is remains uncertain, with sources indicating a ’50-50′ chance. The team needs to assemble by December 6, necessitating a decision from the selectors on Wednesday. If Gill is ruled out, opening partnerships could feature Sanju Samson or Yashasvi Jaiswal alongside the in-form Abhishek Sharma. Samson has previous T20I experience, while Jaiswal is a new prospect. The selectors are also anticipated to include seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has made a successful return to competitive cricket in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, demonstrating his all-round capabilities. Pandya’s inclusion, along with the chosen squad, will offer insights into the team’s strategy for the T20 World Cup. India’s five-match T20I series against South Africa will kick off in Cuttack and conclude in Ahmedabad.