Shubman Gill Injured Ahead of Sri Lanka Warm-Up Match, Hit on Thumb During Training

Shubman Gill suffered a minor injury scare ahead of India’s warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI after the India captain was struck on his right thumb during a net session in Colombo on Thursday. Gill briefly left the practice area to consult the medical staff but returned to training shortly afterwards.

The incident comes just ahead of India’s three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI, scheduled to begin on August 7. India are preparing for a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, with the first Test scheduled to begin on August 15.

Shubman Gill Hit on Right Thumb During Practice

Gill was struck on his right thumb by the ball during the net session. The India captain immediately walked away from the nets and consulted the team’s medical staff.

However, there was no major cause for concern, as Gill returned to the practice session shortly afterwards. The incident nevertheless raised concerns given India’s growing list of injury worries ahead of the Test series.

Gill also had another scare during the same training session while taking catches in the slips. A ball hit his right hand, leaving the batter in visible discomfort. The team physio subsequently applied an ice pack to his hand.

India to Play Two-Test Series in Sri Lanka

India are currently touring Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series. Before the Tests, the visitors will play a three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI starting August 7.

The first Test of the series is scheduled to begin on August 15, making the fitness of key players particularly important for the Indian team management.

India Already Dealing With Several Injury Concerns

Gill’s injury scare comes at a time when India are already dealing with several fitness issues.

Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the series due to injury, with Mohammed Siraj expected to lead India’s pace attack in his absence.

All-rounder Shivam Dube is also unavailable for the tour because of a hamstring injury, while Harshit Rana is out of contention. Sai Sudharsan’s availability remains dependent on his fitness clearance.

With several players facing fitness concerns, Gill’s return to practice will come as a relief for the Indian camp.

Shubman Gill Has Faced Injury Setbacks Before

Gill has previously dealt with injuries during his international career. His injury history includes a thumb injury during India’s tour of Australia, an ankle problem during the 2024 Test series against England, and a retirement hurt during an ODI series in England.

The latest thumb scare will therefore be closely monitored by the Indian team ahead of the Test series.

New Fielding Coach Shubdeep Ghosh Organises Catching Challenge

The training session also featured a catching challenge organised by India’s new fielding coach, Shubdeep Ghosh.

Ghosh has taken over the fielding responsibilities from T. Dilip and divided the Indian squad into two teams during the practice session. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also shared a video of the activity on social media.

With the Sri Lanka Tests approaching, India will hope Gill’s latest injury scare remains minor and that the captain is fully fit for the upcoming assignments.