Shubman Gill likely to return for T20I series vs South Africa, Hardik Pandya set to play in SMAT 2025 - Report

New Delhi: Team India batter Shubman Gill is likely to be back in action during the five-match T20I series against South Africa, which is set to begin in Cuttack on December 9. Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is also all set to participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025 for Baroda after completing his rehabilitation and training in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE).

Gill suffered a neck injury while batting on day 2 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He was admitted to the hospital after the second day's play, and the BCCI confirmed on the third day that he would take no further part in the contest.

After getting discharged from the hospital, Gill travelled to Guwahati for the second Test. He did not train with the team and was expected to undergo a final fitness test in a late attempt to make himself available for the second Test. However, the BCCI medical team didn't take any risks, prompting his withdrawal from the Test match.

The Indian captain travelled to Mumbai from Guwahati to consult a specialist for further assessment and injury management. According to a report from Revsportz journalist Rohit Juglan, Gill is recovering well from the injury, and there are high chances that he will participate in the T20I series against South Africa.

India’s all-rounder Hardik Pandya is just two days away from completing his rehabilitation and training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. After that, Pandya is set to play for Baroda in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025.

He has been out of action since suffering a quadriceps injury in the Asia Cup 2025. He missed the recent Australia tour due to recovery and will also miss the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas side.