In a concerning development for Team India, Shubman Gill has reportedly sustained a hand injury just days before the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 match against Pakistan. The two arch-rivals will face off on Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with the match set to begin at 8:00 PM IST.
Injury During Practice Session
According to The Times of India, Gill, who was unbeaten on 20 runs in India’s previous match against the UAE, suffered the injury during the team’s practice session. The incident left the young batter visibly uncomfortable, and the team’s physio quickly rushed to his aid. After receiving immediate attention, Gill walked off the pitch and was seen sitting on an icebox, holding his injured hand.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir spoke to Gill at length following the injury, with his opening partner, Abhishek Sharma, assisting him with a water bottle. Despite the discomfort, Gill was determined to continue and soon returned to the nets to face the next delivery.
Possible Replacement: Sanju Samson
If Gill is unable to recover in time for the India-Pakistan match, Sanju Samson is expected to step in as the opening batter. Samson, who is India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in T20Is, has a proven record as an opener, having scored three centuries in T20Is last year. He was part of the playing XI in India’s match against the UAE, though he did not get an opportunity to bat in the 58-run chase.
Arshdeep Singh’s Absence: Will He Play Against Pakistan?
In another development, despite being India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is, Arshdeep Singh was left out of the playing XI against the UAE. The left-arm pacer has taken 99 wickets in 63 T20I matches, but his exclusion raised questions. In his absence, Shivam Dube bowled a remarkable spell, taking 3 wickets for just 4 runs, while Kuldeep Yadav claimed 4 wickets for just 7 runs in 2.1 overs.
With the team’s solid performance in the UAE match, the Indian management is likely to retain the same XI for the upcoming match against Pakistan.
Stay updated with the latest Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on Today Cricket Matches!