India may introduce a new No. 4 batter for the second Test in Guwahati as captain Shubman Gill continues to recover from a neck spasm sustained during the Kolkata Test. Assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Thursday that wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is a strong option to bat at No. 4, having taken that spot in the second innings of the first Test.
Jurel Emerges As Contender
Kotak stated that Jurel’s promotion in Kolkata was a tactical move and could be repeated if Gill fails to pass his fitness test.
“Jurel batted at No. 4, so he is one option. But until we know about Shubman, there is no point discussing who will play,” Kotak told reporters.
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Decision Pending Gill’s Fitness Test
Gill has not returned to the nets since Day 2 of the first Test, which India lost by 30 runs. Despite showing signs of recovery, the medical team will take a final call after assessing him on Friday evening.
Kotak noted:
“Even if he is fully recovered, doctors need to assess whether there is a chance of the spasm recurring during the match.”
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Second Test Set for November 22
India will finalise their playing XI only after evaluating pitch conditions in Guwahati and concluding Gill’s fitness assessment. The second and final Test against South Africa begins on Saturday, November 22.
