Sun Nov 17 01:58:20 UTC 2024: ## Injury Blow to India Ahead of Crucial Australia Test Series
**Perth, Australia:** India’s preparations for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy have been dealt a significant blow with star batter Shubman Gill reportedly fracturing his left thumb during an intra-squad match. The injury, confirmed by a BCCI source to PTI, casts doubt on Gill’s participation in the first Test, starting November 22nd in Perth. Gill, a key player in India’s last successful tour of Australia, was forced to leave the field in pain after the incident. A report in the Indian Express even states Gill is ruled out of the first Test.
Adding to India’s woes, captain Rohit Sharma’s availability is also uncertain. He welcomed a baby boy on Friday and remains in Mumbai. With less than a week until the match, his participation hangs in the balance, potentially leaving India’s top order depleted.
The injury to Gill opens the door for Abhimanyu Easwaran, who has been called up but lacks a strong record in Australia. KL Rahul, also nursing an elbow bruise sustained during the intra-squad match, is another option but his form is also a concern. Dhruv Jurel’s impressive batting performance in the unofficial Tests could also earn him a place in the playing XI.
The news comes amidst other challenges for Team India, including a recent embarrassing whitewash against New Zealand. While a thumb fracture typically requires a two-week healing period, Gill’s availability for the second Test, starting December 6th, is more likely.
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