Sun Nov 17 11:39:44 IST 2024: ## India’s Gill Ruled Out of First Test Against Australia Due to Thumb Fracture
**Nagpur, India** – A significant blow has struck the Indian cricket team ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Star batsman Shubman Gill has suffered a thumb fracture during an intra-squad practice match and will miss the first Test, according to sources within the BCCI.
Gill sustained the injury while fielding and subsequent scans revealed a fracture that will require at least two weeks of recovery. This rules him out of the opening Test match starting November 22nd in Nagpur. There is hope he will be fit for the second Test in Adelaide on December 6th.
This injury adds to the injury woes plaguing the Indian team. While Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Sarfaraz Khan have sustained minor injuries, Gill’s fracture is a more serious setback. Rahul, who also suffered an elbow injury during the practice match, was reportedly present at the WACA on Saturday but did not participate in training. His availability remains uncertain.
Gill’s absence opens the door for KL Rahul’s potential return to the opening spot, though his own fitness is now a major concern. The Indian team management will be closely monitoring the situation as they look to field their strongest possible XI for the crucial series against Australia.
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