KL Rahul is set to make a comeback as India’s ODI captain for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa, after skipper Shubman Gill was ruled out due to a more serious neck injury than initially thought, according to PTI. Gill’s recovery timeline has extended, prompting selectors to consider a stop-gap captain and adjust the squad ahead of the series starting November 30 in Ranchi. With vice-captain Shreyas Iyer also sidelined with a rib cage injury sustained during India’s tour of Australia, Rahul is poised to return to the leadership role after a two-year gap. The last time he captained India in any format was in December 2023 during the South Africa tour.
Gill’s injury, sustained while batting in the opening Test in Kolkata, initially appeared minor but has proven more complicated. He missed the second Test in Guwahati and is currently undergoing scans and consultations in Mumbai. BCCI officials have indicated that the issue may involve muscular or nerve complications, rather than a simple neck spasm. A BCCI source explained, “All tests are being conducted to determine whether it’s a muscular strain or a nerve-related issue. Gill has received an injection to manage symptoms and will need rest before starting rehabilitation. There is a strong possibility he may miss the T20I series as well.” Gill also consulted spinal specialist Dr Abhay Nene, with findings sent to chief selector Ajit Agarkar. With his fitness uncertain, the management has opted against taking any risk with him in the ODIs, and his availability for the T20Is starting December 9 remains doubtful. While Rishabh Pant, India’s Test captain in Guwahati, was considered for the role, his lack of recent ODI experience—having played only one 50-over game in the past year while recovering from a long-term injury—weakened his case. KL Rahul, India’s first-choice ODI wicketkeeper and a former captain, now emerges as the most practical replacement. With Iyer still recovering from a spleen injury and unlikely to return for another two months, the selectors are prioritising stability, making Rahul the natural choice to lead India in South Africa.
