In a significant boost for the Indian cricket team, vice-captain Shubman Gill has been declared fit and is set to make his comeback in the upcoming five-match T20 International series against South Africa. The series is scheduled to begin on December 9 in Cuttack.
Key Players Return After Injury Layoffs
Gill's return comes after a successful rehabilitation period at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The talented batter had sustained a neck injury during the first Test match against New Zealand in Kolkata last month, which forced him to miss subsequent matches. His availability was confirmed by head coach Gautam Gambhir following India's 2-1 ODI series victory over South Africa on Saturday.
The Indian squad receives a double boost with the return of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Pandya has been out of action since September after suffering a quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup. His presence adds crucial balance and firepower to the team's lineup.
On the South African side, the Proteas will welcome back the explosive left-hander David Miller. Miller missed the recent T20I series against Pakistan due to a grade one right hamstring strain. His big-hitting prowess in the middle order is a vital component of the South African batting unit.
Dale Steyn Expresses Excitement for the Series
Former South African fast bowling legend Dale Steyn shared his enthusiasm for the return of these key players. In a video posted by Star Sports on their 'X' account, Steyn highlighted the excitement surrounding Gill's comeback for Indian fans.
"Sounds like he's back for India, so that makes every fan in India pretty excited to have him back," said Steyn. Speaking about David Miller's return, he added, "He's back for South Africa. Big hitting David Miller, he hits the ball out of the ground. I'm excited to watch him back."
Steyn also reminisced about the last high-stakes encounter between the two teams, noting, "Last time I watched South Africa play India in a T20 was in a World Cup final in Barbados. It's going to be a great thing to watch and very excited to be a part of it."
Complete T20I Series Schedule
The bilateral series promises exciting cricket across five venues in India. The full schedule is as follows:
- 1st T20I: December 9 in Cuttack
- 2nd T20I: December 11 in New Chandigarh
- 3rd T20I: December 14 in Dharamsala
- 4th T20I: December 17 in Lucknow
- 5th T20I: December 19 in Ahmedabad
This series marks a crucial phase for both teams as they build their squads and combinations ahead of future international commitments. The return of Gill, Pandya, and Miller sets the stage for a highly competitive and entertaining contest between two of the world's top cricketing nations.
