Xtra Time Web Desk: In what comes as a setback for Team India, Shubman Gill is also ruled out of the second game of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against Afghanistan in Delhi on October 11. Gill is diagnosed with dengue and has stayed back in Chennai. The star batter did not travel with the Indian team to Delhi on Monday. Gill had already missed the opening game against Australia in Chennai, where Ishan Kishan stepped in at the top of the order.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Gill would not travel to Delhi with the team and instead remain in Chennai under the supervision of the medical team. This development raises questions about India’s opening combination for the match against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Following the Afghanistan clash on October 11, the Indian team is scheduled to move to Ahmedabad for a high-octane encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14. It is not clear whether Gill will be fit and available for the Pakistan game
Despite Gill missing the opening game against Australia, India registered a comprehensive 6 wicket win at the MA Chidambaram stadium. Chasing 200 runs to win, India was reduced to 2 for 3. But a brilliant 165 runs partnership from Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out ) saw the team home with 52 balls remaining.