India batter Shubman Gill is expected to remain out of action for the rest of 2025 following medical assessments that have identified his neck issue as a nerve-related injury, ruling out any short-term return to competitive cricket.
According to recent reports shared with the selectors and team management, the 25-year-old’s recovery timeline has shifted significantly. Gill has reportedly received an injection to manage his symptoms and has been advised complete rest before beginning rehabilitation, which delays any possibility of an early comeback.
Return Expected in Early 2026
Team management now considers India’s upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand early next year as the first realistic window for Gill’s return—provided his rehabilitation progresses smoothly. This timeline rules him out of:
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The ongoing Test series
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The ODIs beginning November 30
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The five-match T20I series in December
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The entire South Africa tour
India are expected to name a stand-in captain for the ODI leg and adjust the top order accordingly during Gill’s absence.
Recovery Protocol
The medical team is working to determine whether the injury stems mainly from muscular strain or nerve irritation. Given the severity of the symptoms, Gill will follow a structured recovery plan involving:
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Rest and symptom management
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Rehabilitation programme
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Fitness conditioning
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Return to skill-based training
This phased approach pushes his comeback window to early next year, aligning with India’s preparation for the home T20 World Cup in February–March 2026. Team management is prioritising long-term fitness over short-term availability, avoiding any risk of aggravating a nerve-related condition.
For now, all planning centres around a full recovery with the aim of welcoming Gill back for the New Zealand series at home in 2026, assuming no setbacks occur.
