India are yet to name their squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa and the delay has sparked plenty of curiosity.
The series begins on December 9. And heading into it, all eyes are on Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya, who are currently going through their fitness programs at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru.
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While Gill’s recovery from a neck injury remains uncertain, Hardik’s return appears far more promising, creating a scenario where the selectors may be waiting for one final update before finalising the squad.
Shubman Gill injury update and why his assessment matters
According to PTI, Gill is due at the COE for mandatory fitness testing that will determine whether he can rejoin the T20I setup.
The opener injured his neck during the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata and has since missed the second Test and the ODI series.
Sources told PTI that Gill underwent an injection and a 21-day rehabilitation plan, with strengthening work targeted at the affected area.
Only once the sports science team evaluates his movements, especially during batting drills, will a clear decision be made.
A BCCI source told PTI that nothing can be confirmed “unless the sports science team assesses his movements… and whether he is having zero discomfort while batting.”
Reports suggest his chances of playing the T20Is remain “50-50”.
MORE: Will Shubman Gill be fit for the T20 series against South Africa?
Hardik Pandya cleared and set for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy return
While Gill’s status hangs in the balance, Pandya’s comeback is progressing smoothly.
According to sources at the COE, Hardik has completed full rehabilitation and passed all “Return to Play” protocols after spending more than a month at the facility without interruption.
He has been cleared to bat and bowl in T20Is and will feature for Baroda in two Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches against Punjab and Gujarat with selector Pragyan Ojha monitoring his performances.
As per COE sources, Hardik “has been given the all clear” and plans to play an additional match against Haryana if required.
His match fitness in these games is expected to guide selectors before they finalise the squad.
Are selectors delaying the squad announcement because of fitness updates?
Given that no major surprises are expected in the T20I squad, it’s understood that the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is waiting for definitive fitness reports particularly Gill’s before making the announcement.
Hardik’s readiness appears confirmed, but Gill’s status could influence the final combination.
With both players undergoing key assessments this week, clarity is expected as soon as India set their plans for the South Africa tour for T20I series.
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