Gill and Hardik Declared Fit Ahead of First T20I Against South Africa, Confirms Suryakumar Yadav

India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that both Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya are fully fit ahead of the opening T20I against South Africa in Cuttack on Tuesday. Gill had been sidelined due to neck spasms suffered during the first Test in Kolkata, while Hardik had been recovering from a quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup.

Gill has not played since his injury layoff, but Hardik has already returned to competitive cricket through the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Representing Baroda, he bowled four overs in each match and picked up a wicket in both games. He also impressed with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 77 off 42 balls to guide his team to a successful chase of 223 against Punjab.

Suryakumar highlighted Hardik’s value to the team, particularly his ability to take the new ball, which significantly enhances India’s tactical options and overall balance. He also noted Hardik’s experience in major tournaments as a crucial asset.

With Gill back in the squad, Suryakumar indicated that Sanju Samson would now be competing with Jitesh Sharma for a middle-order position. He stressed that all batters, except the openers, must be ready to adapt to different roles and positions within the lineup. Samson, who has previously performed well at the top, is now expected to be flexible, similar to Jitesh, who can also bat anywhere between No. 3 and No. 6. Suryakumar considered having versatile players like them a positive selection challenge for the team.