India captain Shubman Gill sustained a right-elbow injury during a net session in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, raising temporary concerns ahead of the three-match ODI series against the West Indies while Caribbean players face a contentious 25 percent retainer fee cut.
Net Session Injury Scare for India’s ODI Captain
Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill sparked an injury scare during a Friday practice session at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram when a rising delivery from fast bowler Mohammed Siraj caught him flush on the right elbow. The incident occurred just two days before India’s opening One Day International against the West Indies.
Gill immediately stopped batting and required medical attention for nearly 20 minutes as reported by PTI. The team physio first checked his shoulder flexibility before applying an ice pack.
Though visibly in pain, Gill eventually returned to the nets to face throwdowns before India wound up the evening session. He did not bat again, but team management noted he packed up his protective gear himself and walked off carrying his bat and pads.
Veterans Return as Morkel Praises Leadership Balance
As Gill recovered on the sidelines, senior batting mainstays Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma took over adjacent nets.
India bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed reporters following the session, praising Gill’s early tenure while emphasizing the value of having seasoned veterans in the dressing room.
“I must say that Shubman has done an exceptional job so far leading the team. But I’m always a big believer in your senior players and how they shape the team. I think different players in the team will feel more comfortable speaking to a certain senior individual.”
Morne Morkel, India bowling coach
Morkel added that the coaching staff actively pushes younger squad members to consult senior figures about tactical challenges like facing the new ball up front. The series serves as a crucial developmental block in India’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Financial Upheaval for West Indies Cricket
While the hosts finalized their preparations, the visiting West Indies squad arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on September 23 but remained off the training grounds through Friday evening. Their delayed practice comes amid administrative turmoil following a financial restructuring announced by Cricket West Indies.
Under the new measures, players face a 25 percent reduction in retainer fees. While international players keep their 12-month contracts, domestic retainers have been shortened to seven months. CWI Chief Executive Chris Dehring defended the cuts in an official statement.
The three-match ODI series opens on September 27 in Thiruvananthapuram, moves to Guwahati on September 30, and concludes in New Chandigarh on October 3 with medical staff continuing to monitor Gill’s physical recovery.