Confusion and discontent emerged within the Indian camp after a reported delay in providing medical attention to captain Shubman Gill during the second day of the India–South Africa Test at Eden Gardens. According to a report in Anandabazar Patrika, the team management was displeased with the absence of an on-site specialist despite prior communication with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). The matter erupted after Gill experienced intense neck pain during warm-up on Saturday morning, following a suspected whiplash-type injury the previous day while slog-sweeping Simon Harmer for a boundary. Gill walked off on four, clutching the back of his neck, and retired hurt after facing only three deliveries. The physio attempted immediate intervention, but the discomfort persisted. The report states that the team soon sought specialist evaluation based on the physio and trainer’s advice. However, the specialist reportedly arrived only around 9:30 am, after the match had begun. Until then, only an RMO was present at the venue, leaving Gill without a comprehensive assessment before play resumed. Read also: KKR 2026 Retention List: Released, Retained & Trade Updates for IPL Auction Indian camp left frustrated as Gill plays through pain Forced to bat without receiving specialised care, Gill was seen visibly distressed. After hitting a sweep for four, he grimaced, held his neck, and abandoned his innings. He did not return for the remainder of India’s first innings, which ended with the team losing nine wickets. The situation intensified as Gill was later transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for evaluation of “neck stiffness.” PTI reported that he was taken on a stretcher and was experiencing cervical collar pain. Concerns about his participation grew, though India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel played down the cause. “Yeah, I think we first need to determine how he got the neck stiffness, maybe just a bad night’s sleep… I don’t think it’s, or we can put it down to the load.” He added that Gill’s fitness was otherwise exceptional and the timing of the discomfort was unfortunate. The BCCI later stated: “Shubman Gill has a neck spasm and is being monitored by the BCCI medical team. A decision on his participation today will be taken as per his progress.” By stumps, South Africa were reeling at 93/7, leading by 63, but the larger worry for India remained their captain’s availability.