Shubman Gill cleared to play first ODI after elbow blow in nets
Shubman Gill receives treatment after being struck on the elbow by Mohammed Siraj but is cleared to lead India in Sunday's first ODI against West Indies.
India captain Shubman Gill has been cleared to play the first ODI against West Indies after suffering a blow to his right elbow during a nets session in Thiruvananthapuram. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed Gill is fit and ready following treatment that lasted nearly 20 minutes on Friday. Gill returned to face throwdowns before the session ended.
The incident occurred two days before the opening match at the Greenfield International Stadium. Gill has a history of fitness interruptions since 2023, including dengue, neck and toe injuries. Yashasvi Jaiswal remains available as a replacement opener if required.
Kotak also addressed selection pressure on Jaiswal, saying competition within the squad means only one player can feature even when multiple options perform. KL Rahul has been named vice-captain for the series in the absence of Shreyas Iyer, who is leading India's T20I side at the Asian Games.