IND vs AUS: Shubman Gill ruled out of Perth Test after fracturing thumb; Padikkal set to be called-in as backup
The HinduShubman Gill has been all but ruled of the opening Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy after having fractured his thumb during India’s simulation practice session at the Western Australia Cricket Association stadium on Saturday. Sportstar understands that Gill injured his left thumb while attempting a catch in the slip cordon during the second day’s training of India’s three-day simulation at WACA, close to the Test match venue of the series-opener against Australia starting November 22. It is learnt that the team management in consultation with the national selection committee has asked Padikkal – who has been an integral part of India A’s set-up that’s been in Australia since the last month – to be retained as a back-up batter. It is yet to be confirmed whether captain Rohit Sharma – who is set to join the squad early next week after being blessed with a baby boy on Friday – will be available for the opening Test.