In a challenging run-up to their World Cup debut against Australia, the Indian cricket squad faces concerns due to Shubman Gill’s recent health setback. Gill, hailed as one of India’s most consistent ODI players lately, is suffering from a high fever and has been diagnosed with dengue.
Shubman, celebrated as India’s most dynamic batter in One Day Internationals (ODIs) of late, has been grappling with a significant fever since his arrival in Chennai. “Shubman’s been feverish since touching down in Chennai. Ongoing tests are being conducted, with further assessments scheduled for Friday, after which a decision regarding his involvement in the inaugural game will be made,” shared a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), requesting anonymity.
Those familiar with the situation report that the Indian team management is keenly tracking Gill’s recuperation, and decisions regarding his involvement will hinge on another round of diagnostic tests on Friday.
Recovery trajectories for dengue patients can be erratic, typically necessitating a period of 7-10 days to regain strength and be match-ready. “We ought to refrain from making premature judgements. If it’s a standard viral fever, playing on antibiotics could be a possibility, yet the ultimate decision lies firmly in the hands of the medical team,” highlighted the source.
Should Gill be ruled out due to his health predicament, the doors swing wide open for KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan, with one likely to join forces with Rohit Sharma to spearhead the Indian batting lineup.
The potential absence of Gill is undeniably a severe blow to the Indian batting might. The vibrant young talent has solidified his position as one of the premier openers in global cricket, boasting an impressive average exceeding 70 runs in ODIs this year.
A BCCI spokesperson commented, “He’s not feeling his best, and our medical team is providing close supervision. Our collective hopes are pinned on his swift recovery. We remain on standby for further updates from our medical professionals.”
