India’s preparations for the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati have been thrown into an unexpected scenario. With captain Shubman Gill sidelined due to injury, vice-captain Rishabh Pant will lead the team, stepping into a role he admits isn’t “ideal.”
“One-off match is not the best scenario for a captain, but I’m thankful to the BCCI for giving me this honour,” Pant said at the pre-match press conference. “Sometimes, if you think too much about a big occasion, it doesn’t help. I don’t want to overthink. We had a tough first Test, and we need to do whatever is required to win.”
Gill’s absence leaves a key spot open in the playing XI, and the team management is weighing their options between Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal. Pant explained the approach, highlighting a mix of conventional and innovative thinking. “We’ve taken a decision on who will play in place of Shubman. The person who will play knows he is playing. I want a nice balance – keep things simple, and the team that plays better cricket will win.”
Despite missing out, Gill’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. “Shubman was keen to play. He showed resilience even when his body was not permitting him, and that’s the attitude you want to see. I’m in touch with him every day, and I got to know about the captaincy yesterday evening,” Pant added.
India now faces the pressure of potentially losing a second consecutive home Test series within a year. Around the same time last year, they were swept 0-3 by New Zealand. While they managed a series win against West Indies, the quality of opposition was a different challenge altogether.
As the series shifts to Guwahati, all eyes will be on Pant’s leadership and how the team adapts in the absence of their regular captain. It promises to be a fascinating contest, not just for the cricket on the field, but for the strategy, resilience, and composure India shows under unexpected circumstances.
Also Read: IND vs SA: Shubman Gill Out, Rishabh Pant likely to lead India in crucial Guwahati Test
