Shubman Gill Ruled Out, Sarfaraz Khan Replaces in Bengaluru Test

The first Test of the three-match series against New Zealand in Bengaluru is probably going to be missed by star Indian batsman Shubman Gill. Due to his stiff neck, the 25-year-old has been spending most of his training sessions at the physiotherapist's table in recent days. The team management is willing to wait till the last minute to make a decision, thus neither Rohit Sharma, the captain, nor the BCCI made any comments on the subject during the pre-match press conference.

According to a Hindustan Times report, Sarfaraz Khan is anticipated to return to the playing XI if Gill is benched. Earlier this year, the 26-year-old faced England in his first Test match. During the five-match series, he participated in three Test matches and amassed 200 runs at an average of 50. He recently played for India B in the Duleep Trophy, however, the flashy batsman was unable to make an impression with three innings of scores of 9, 46, and 16.

Shubman Gill's injury becomes a problem:

But in the Irani Cup encounter against the Rest of India, he produced a double-century that won the match for Mumbai. Because Rohit appreciates Sarfaraz's contributions, he might even bat him at number three when Gill isn't there. But Sarfaraz may bat at number six after Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul can also be an option.

Rain is probably going to have an impact on the first test's first day. Although there had been a lot of rain before the match, the venue's drainage and pitch infrastructure were adequate. Heavy rain is predicted for Bengaluru on October 16 and 18, according to AccuWeather. On Day 2, there is minimal to no chance of rain. Although it will be windy and gloomy, the game won't be impacted. 

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