Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati

Guwahati, Nov 23: With regular captain Shubman Gill sidelined due to a neck injury, Rishabh Pant led India in the second Test against South Africa at Barsapara Cricket Stadium. Pant’s defensive field placement on Day 1 drew criticism from former India players Anil Kumble and Aakash Chopra.

Chopra questioned the strategy, saying, “There is a fielder at mid-wicket, a long-on, no short leg… what is the plan here?” Kumble added with a subtle dig, “On the leg side, an ODI field has been set. It’s Day 1’s first session, yet there is a deep square leg, long on, and deep midwicket.”

Chopra further noted, “Even guesswork will fail here. When have we ever seen Ryan Rickelton dance down the track and play over the top against spin? Is this field set for a short-ball burst?”

Gill, who is currently in Mumbai undergoing medical tests including an MRI, is expected to miss the upcoming ODI series as well. Sources told PTI that his injury requires extensive rest, ruling out a quick return. Pant or senior player KL Rahul could be options for stand-in captaincy, with veteran Rohit Sharma also in the squad.