Anil Kumble picks Shubman Gill’s replacement for the second Test against South Africa

Anil Kumble named Sai Sudharsan as the 'frontrunner' to replace the injured Shubman Gill for the 2nd Test vs SA. Kumble cautioned against Devdutt Padikkal, warning that too many left-handers would benefit spinner Simon Harmer, who tormented India in the 1st Test.

By Rui 17 Nov 2025 in Cricket

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Former Indian spinner and analyst Anil Kumble has revealed his pick for the Indian Test captain, Shubman Gill’s replacement for the second and final Test against South Africa, in Guwahati. Notably, Gill suffered a neck spasm during the first innings and left the field mid-way.

India suffered a 30-run defeat in the first Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Moreover, Gill is expected to be ruled out of the second Test, in Guwahati, and vice-captain Rishabh Pant is expected to lead the side in Gill’s absence.

Speaking exclusively on Star Sports, the former Indian cricketer stated that the Indian team management would most likely go with Sai Sudharsan as a replacement for Gill in the second Test. Moreover, he also revealed the reason why India shouldn't go ahead with Devdutt Padikkal in the XI.

“India will certainly be hoping that Shubman Gill is fit for the next Test. If he isn’t, Sai Sudharsan will likely come back in. If India continues with six bowlers - two pacers and four spinners - then the rest of the team should remain the same. That might be the only change,” Kumble told Star Sports.

“If India chooses not to go with that combination, the other batting option is Devdutt Padikkal. However, bringing him in would make the entire top order left-handed, which could invite someone like Simon Harmer to come in and bowl all day,” Kumble said.

Additionally, Kumble emphasized that Team India should continue with only two seamers unless the pitch offers a green top in Guwahati, adding that the team should stick with a similar line-up, with Sudharsan coming in for Gill.

“I don’t think India will play three seamers unless the pitch is a green top. We don’t know that yet. But overall, India should stick with a similar lineup, with the only possible change being Gill, if he’s fit. If he isn’t, Sai Sudharsan comes in,” Kumble reckoned.

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