India's cricket team is grappling with uncertainty ahead of the second and final Test against South Africa at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, as Captain Shubman Gill's neck injury continues to cast doubts over his participation. The opener, sustained during the first Test in Kolkata, forced Gill to retire hurt and miss batting in the second innings, contributing to India's 30-run defeat while chasing 124. Medical assessments ruled him out for the remainder of that match, and recent reports indicate persistent stiffness in his neck, with his chances of playing pegged at around 50-50. Gill is expected to travel with the squad to Guwahati on Wednesday, but if unfit, he may head directly to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further recovery under specialist care.

In response to the situation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has summoned 22-year-old all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy back to the Test squad earlier than planned, withdrawing him from India A's ongoing List A series against South Africa A in Rajkot. Reddy, who was released from the senior team last week to gain match practice, arrived in Kolkata on Monday evening and skipped nets to avoid fatigue from travel. Sources suggest the move ensures a balanced batting order, as Reddy's right-handed prowess and lower-order hitting—highlighted by his maiden Test century against Australia earlier this year—make him a strong contender to slot into the middle order if Gill is unavailable. This reshuffle underscores head coach Gautam Gambhir's proactive approach, prioritising recovery and tactical flexibility for the must-win fixture starting November 22.

The series opener exposed vulnerabilities in India's batting lineup on a deteriorating pitch, where spinners dismantled the chase despite a first-innings lead. With the Barsapara venue hosting its maiden Test—known for favouring pace over spin in first-class cricket—the team management faces a selection puzzle. Alternatives like Devdutt Padikkal or Sai Sudharsan are available on the bench, but adding another left-hander could disrupt matchups against South Africa's attack. Reddy's all-round skills, including useful medium-pace bowling, position him ideally to break up a string of left-handers and provide depth, potentially allowing Rishabh Pant to assume captaincy duties if Gill sits out.

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A victory in Guwahati is crucial for India to square the two-match series 1-1 and salvage pride before the subsequent white-ball leg, comprising three ODIs and five T20Is. The hosts, already without senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in this transitional phase, will rely on young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Washington Sundar to step up. Reddy's timely recall not only addresses the immediate crisis but also signals faith in emerging stars, as India aims to end the year on a high note at home.

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