Injury scare for India ahead of Test series against Sri Lanka, Shubman Gill hit on thumb and hand during practice

An injury scare rocked the Indian camp during team's net session in Sri Lanka ahead of their upcoming two-Test series which is slated to get underway from August 15. India's Test captain Shubman Gill took a hit to his right thumb while batting on the second day of practice following the squad's arrival. As per a Times Now reporter, the team physician stepped in immediately, applying a protective bandage to the captain's thumb right there in the nets.

Injury blow to Shubman Gill ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

Despite the setback, Gill strapped up his thumb and returned to finish his batting stint, a encouraging sign for the team management. Not just that, moments later, Gill was hurt again, this time on his hand during slip catching practice and was seen in a lot of pain before physios rushed in with an ice pack.

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Shubman Gill's injury timeline

Settling into an extended session will be vital for the skipper, given that Sri Lanka's low, spin-heavy tracks present a stern challenge for visiting batters. India will be desperately hoping the knock proves minor, especially since Gill has been the team's standout performer in the red-ball format since assuming the captaincy during the England tour.

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Physical hurdles are not entirely new for the Indian leader. Gill has previously battled cramps and neck issues in both limited-overs and Test cricket, most notably missing the home Test series against South Africa earlier this year after suffering a neck injury while attempting a slog sweep.

India already grappling with injury woes

India’s squad depth is being tested to its limits following a wave of injuries that has severely disrupted their tour preparation. The visitors were already missing Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana before fresh fitness setbacks to Jasprit Bumrah, Sai Sudharsan, and Washington Sundar further threw selection plans into disarray.

The pace attack took a major hit with Bumrah officially sidelined from the series, paving the way for maiden call-up Auqib Nabi to join the setup. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar is expected to miss the opening Test after sustaining a hamstring strain during the preceding ODI series against England.

Adding to the top-order concerns, Sai Sudharsan remains a doubtful starter for the first Test as he recovers from a toe injury. The batter did not travel with the initial squad to Sri Lanka and continues his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.