Just days before the start of the Test series against Sri Lanka, the Indian cricket team received a major update from Colombo. During the three-day practice match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI, a sudden leadership change was seen as vice-captain KL Rahul walked out for the toss instead of regular captain Shubman Gill.

The reason behind this change was later revealed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which provided an update on Gill’s injury.

BCCI Gives Update on Shubman Gill’s Injury

According to the BCCI, Shubman Gill suffered an injury to his right ring finger during Thursday’s practice session. As a precautionary step, the team management decided to keep him away from the field on the opening day of the practice match.

The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring Gill’s condition and his recovery process. The team management will take further decisions depending on his fitness ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.

KL Rahul Leads Team India in Practice Match

In Gill’s absence, KL Rahul took responsibility as captain during the warm-up game at the NCC Ground in Colombo.

Sri Lanka Cricket XI won the toss and decided to bat first. Team India, under Rahul’s leadership, started the match with bowling.

Since the playing XI for the practice match was not officially announced, there is still a possibility that Gill could participate during India’s batting innings if the team management considers him fit.

Gill Injured Twice During Practice

Reports suggest that Shubman Gill faced two injury scares during practice on August 6.

First, while batting, a delivery hit his right hand, after which medical staff provided treatment and bandaged the area. Later, while practicing slip catching, another ball struck the same hand.

Following this, Gill stopped participating in further practice sessions, and he was also rested from the opening day of the warm-up match.

Fitness Before First Test Remains the Priority

India will begin the Test series against Sri Lanka on August 15 in Galle. The team management and fans will be hoping that Gill’s injury is minor and that he returns to full fitness before the important series opener.

His availability will be closely monitored in the coming days as India prepares for the challenge in Sri Lankan conditions.