Sat Nov 16 19:19:03 UTC 2024: ## Gill Out of First India-Australia Test with Thumb Fracture
**Perth, Australia –** A major blow has struck the Indian cricket team ahead of the crucial Border Gavaskar Trophy. Star batsman Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the first Test against Australia due to a thumb fracture sustained during a training session.
Gill suffered the injury while fielding on Saturday and scans confirmed the fracture, ruling him out for at least two weeks. While he’s expected to recover in time for the second Test, his absence leaves a significant gap in India’s batting order.
The injury adds to India’s woes, as captain Rohit Sharma’s participation is also uncertain due to the recent birth of his second child. His absence could further reshape the batting lineup.
KL Rahul, previously dropped from the team, is likely to fill Gill’s spot. Rahul himself sustained an elbow injury during the same practice match but is expected to be fit for the first Test after resuming batting on Sunday. His return comes after a period of poor form.
Wicket-keeper batsman Dhruv Jurel is also a strong contender for a spot in the squad, potentially playing as a specialist batsman if Rohit Sharma is unavailable. Jurel impressed recently with scores of 80 and 68 against Australia A. The first Test begins next Friday in Perth.
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