India captain Shubman Gill‘s fitness has emerged as the biggest talking point ahead of the second ODI against England after the skipper retired hurt during the opening match at Edgbaston. Although early indications suggest the issue was caused by heat-induced muscle cramping rather than a serious injury, the Indian team management has not yet confirmed whether Gill will be fit enough to feature in the next game.

With uncertainty surrounding the captain’s availability, former India opener Kris Srikkanth has weighed in on the selection dilemma. The 1983 World Cup winner has named a player who should be drafted into the playing XI if Gill is unavailable, while also suggesting a reshuffle at the top of the batting order.

Shubman Gill walked off after impressive knock against England

Gill looked in complete control during India’s chase of 259 in the first ODI, anchoring the innings with a fluent 80 off 75 deliveries. The right-handed batter mixed elegant stroke play with aggressive intent and appeared well on course for another century before an unfortunate injury cut his innings short. The incident occurred on the fourth ball of the 26th over while facing England pacer Josh Tongue. After attempting a shot, Gill immediately showed signs of discomfort, removing his gloves before crouching on the pitch and clutching the back of his right leg and calf.

The Indian team physio rushed onto the field to assess the injury, but despite receiving treatment, Gill was unable to continue. He eventually limped off the ground retired hurt, raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the series. Subsequent assessments have reportedly indicated that the discomfort was linked to muscle cramps brought on by the demanding conditions rather than a structural injury. However, with only a short gap between the first and second ODI, India are expected to take a cautious approach before making a final decision on their captain.

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Kris Srikkanth picks the repalcement of Gill

If Gill is ruled out, Srikkanth believes India should hand Ishan Kishan an opportunity instead of looking for an outside replacement. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former chairman of selectors said Kishan is the most straightforward choice available within the squad. He also suggested that KL Rahul should be promoted to open the innings, allowing Kishan to strengthen the middle order.

Srikkanth also acknowledged that Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s recent ODI form would have made him a strong contender under different circumstances. However, he pointed out that the tight schedule leaves India with little time to bring in a replacement from outside the touring squad.

“Ishan Kishan is the obvious replacement for Gill. It is unfortunate that Jaiswal isn’t in the squad despite scoring two centuries in his last three ODI innings. I will bring Kishan in for Gill but open with KL Rahul. Ishan Kishan should come in the middle-order. The turnaround is too quick for India to draft Jaiswal into the squad,” Srikkanth said.

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