Team India skipper Shubman Gill's injury is now a big concern for the second Test in Guwahati against South Africa. Gill got a neck spasm during the first innings of the Kolkata Test and had to retire hurt inside three balls. He was taken to the hospital later and did not bat again in the match. India fell short while chasing 124 and there is no clear update on Shubman Gill’s fitness for the next Test starting November 22. A short video clip doing the rounds has made the situation even more serious, as Gill was seen wearing a neck brace and struggling to walk. If he does not recover in time, India will need a replacement opener. The two options are Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal. But who should get the chance? This video's for those who were saying Shubman Gill should have come to bat. 🙂 pic.twitter.com/SDn7JZ2mWa — GillTheWill (@GillTheWill77) November 17, 2025 Also Read | Shubman Gill’s Injury Update: Will India Captain Play Guwahati Test? Sudharsan or Padikkal - Who Fits Better Right Now? The first-class numbers are similar for both Sudharsan and Padikkal. Padikkal has 3199 runs in 49 matches at an average of 41, while Sudharsan has 2562 runs in 38 games at an average of 39. When it comes to Test caps, Sudharsan has played five Tests, while Padikkal has played two. So, the experience gap is not very big, but Sudharsan has already been tested a few more times at this level. Another important point is their performance against right-arm off-spin, especially because South Africa's Simon Harmer dominated in Kolkata with eight wickets. In five innings against right-arm spin, Sudharsan has scored 46 runs from 77 balls, getting out twice. Padikkal has 26 runs from two innings, getting out once. These numbers do not create a clear gap between the two. Also Read | Watch: Bumrah Ends ‘Bauna’ Row as He Puts Arm Around Bavuma After SA Win Why Sudharsan Should Get the Nod Even though the numbers don't separate them strongly, team trust does. Team management has backed Sai Sudharsan in the recent past: picked him for the England series and then gave him opportunities in the West Indies tour as well. They see him as a long-term option, and this could play a big role in selection. Sudharsan has shown good temperament in tough situations. He plays spin with patience and rotates strike well, an important attribute on Indian pitches. With Harmer and Maharaj both likely to play in Guwahati, India will need a batter who is steady under pressure. Padikkal is talented, but he hasn't spent much time with the Test team so far. It is a must-win 2nd Test for India, and they might prefer a batter who understands the environment of the team already. If Gill is ruled out, Sudharsan appears the safer and smarter option. His calm batting style, recent backing of the team, and exposure to Test cricket early make him the perfect replacement for Gill.