India star batter Shubman Gill is reportedly to fly to Ahmedabad for India vs Pakistan ODI World Cup clash as recovery gains momentum

India has made an impressive start to the World Cup 2023 with a convincing victory against Australia in their opening match. They are now gearing up to face Afghanistan in their second game at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on October 11. However, the team has been facing a setback with the absence of Shubman Gill, the star opening batsman, who has been diagnosed with dengue.

The 23-year-old was unable to play in the match against Australia and is confirmed to miss the upcoming encounter against Afghanistan. There are concerns about his availability for the crucial match against Pakistan on Saturday (October 14) in Ahmedabad. Despite these worries, there is some positive news emerging. As per a report from News18 Cricketnext, Shubman Gill is set to fly from Chennai to Ahmedabad today, continuing his recovery process, which is reportedly progressing well. He will be under the supervision of the Indian Cricket Board (ICB) medical team.

“Gill will be travelling to Ahmedabad from Chennai today in a commercial flight. He will continue with recovery and rest there, under the watch of ICB medical team,” a source close disclosed about the Gill’s recovery from Dengue.

Shubman Gill will be given all the time to recover and regain match fitness

Nevertheless, an official from the Indian Cricket Board (ICB) has informed the publication that Shubman Gill’s participation in the India vs Pakistan match on October 14 is highly improbable. However, he dismissed the reports suggesting that the team management is actively seeking replacements for Shubman Gill in the World Cup 2023 squad. Instead, he clarified that the Indian team plans to adopt a similar approach to Australia, who are dealing with the injured Travis Head.

“Shubman Gill will be given all the time to recover and regain match fitness. There is no thought of seeking or discussing replacements at this stage as the management considers him a vital cog in the set- up. Gill is already showing positive signs and is likely to make a return soon,” the ICB official said.

“Look at what Australia are doing with Travis Head. He is injured but they haven’t ruled him out or sought a replacement. Every chance right now is given to Head to make that return. India too are likely to follow a similar approach when it comes to Gill. He has been our one of the most consistent performers in the last year or so,” added the official.