October 23, 2024: India head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed optimism ahead of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, confirming that both Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are fully fit and available for selection.
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Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test in Bengaluru due to neck stiffness, has now recovered. Gambhir stated that Gill’s absence was purely due to injury, and his inclusion in the playing XI will depend on what the team feels is the best winning combination. Gill’s availability offers India a boost at the top of the order, especially after the struggles in the first Test.
Regarding Rishabh Pant, Gambhir addressed concerns that arose after Pant suffered a knee injury in the first Test, which forced Dhruv Jurel to take over wicketkeeping duties. Despite the injury, Pant came out to bat in the second innings but did not keep wickets. Gambhir confirmed that Pant is now fully fit and will resume his role as the primary wicketkeeper in the second Test.
Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the squad was another significant topic. Gambhir explained that Sundar offers strategic flexibility, particularly with New Zealand fielding multiple left-handers in their lineup. Sundar’s ability to bowl off-spin and move the ball away from left-handed batsmen makes him a valuable option. His inclusion could provide India with additional control alongside established spinners Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja.
While the final playing XI has not yet been confirmed, the availability of key players like Gill and Pant and the potential inclusion of Sundar adds important depth to India’s squad as they look to bounce back from their 8-wicket defeat in Bengaluru.
