 "Two match-winners for South Africa from Eden Gardens Test are facing injury issues. Image: AP")
India are not the only one dealing with injury issues with captain Shubman Gill most likely ruled out of the upcoming second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. The Proteas are also facing a race against time to have their match-winners from the Kolkata Test – Simon Harmer and Marco Jansen – ready for the final match.
Off-spinner Harmer was the player of the match at Eden Gardens as South Africa won by 30 runs to take a 1-0 lead, their first Test win in India since 2010. The 36-year-old Harmer took eight wickets in the match, bowling almost 30 overs across two innings.
Double injury scare for South Africa
Pacer Jansen gave South Africa the perfect start by removing India’s openers in the 124-run chase before the hosts were bowled out for 93.
However, there’s a slight possibility they may not be available for the Guwahati Test that starts on Saturday. News18 has reported that Harmer is suffering from a shoulder injury, while Jansen is carrying a niggle. The duo also visited the Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata to have a check-up.
The South Africans are scheduled to travel to Guwahati on Wednesday, and in case Harmer and Jansen are not fit, left-arm spinner Senuran Muthuswamy and Kagiso Rabada could replace them.
Gill likely to travel to Guwahati
Meanwhile, Cricbuzz has reported that Gill, who has been forced to wear a neck collar to tackle the spasm issue, is likely to travel with Team India to Guwahati, but may not play.
Team India have also called up all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy to the squad for the second Test. But it will be interesting to see if he gets into the playing XI or if B Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal get an opportunity.
Washington Sundar played at No 3 for India in the Kolkata Test, and while he did decently well, the experts have been furious with coach Gautam Gambhir for playing an all-rounder in a crucial batting position.