Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Shubman Gill’s brief injury scare has ended on a positive note, with India’s management confirming that the captain is fit and available for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.
Gill had missed the opening day of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI after being hit on his right hand during a training session. The decision was taken as a precaution, with KL Rahul leading the side in Gill’s absence.
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However, Gill made his return on the third day of the practice match, walking out to open India’s chase of 207. He had also been seen batting in the nets earlier in the day, providing an encouraging sign ahead of the first Test.
India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule subsequently provided a reassuring update on the captain’s fitness, making it clear that there was no significant concern.
“It was just a precaution more than anything else. And he has been absolutely fine. He has been doing his training. And the management decided that we could just take that precaution of not putting him into that first day,” Bahutule said.
Gill went on to score 44 runs off 54 balls, hitting seven fours before being dismissed by right-arm spinner Keshara Nuwantha. He also took part in catching drills, further easing concerns surrounding the injury.
GILL PREPARES SPECIFICALLY FOR LANKA SPIN THREAT
With Gill now back on the field, India will be relieved to have their captain available for the opening Test in Galle. The first match of the two-Test series is scheduled to begin on August 15, with the second Test set to be played in Colombo from August 23.
Bahutule also praised Gill for the seriousness with which he approaches his preparation. The coach said the India captain has been tailoring his preparations according to the challenge expected from Sri Lanka’s spin attack.
“Shubman takes his preparation very seriously. And he is a very meticulous boy. And he understands that whatever is the demand for that particular series with the attack, which has been successful for the Sri Lankan team. His preparation is done accordingly,” Bahutule said.
Gill’s return to the middle in the warm-up was therefore a significant positive for India. While his 44 did not turn into a major score, getting time in the middle after the finger scare was more important than the numbers.
With the Test series now just days away, India can move forward with considerably more confidence knowing their captain has recovered and is ready to lead the side in Galle.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
