Gill and Pant are available, while Sundar is in contention for the playing XI. Gambhir discusses important topics ahead of the second Test.
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], October 23: India head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed optimism ahead of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, confirming that Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are fully fit for the crucial match.
Gill was notably absent from India's playing XI in the opening Test defeat in Bengaluru due to neck "stiffness," which kept him from participating. However, the 25-year-old has made a timely recovery and is available for selection, although the final playing XI has yet to be determined, according to Gambhir.
"Shubman Gill was injured, and that's why he didn't play in the first game. We will finalize our playing XI, aiming for a winning combination," Gambhir said at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
In addition to the 8-wicket loss in Bengaluru, concerns also arose regarding Pant's fitness. The dynamic wicketkeeper had to pass the gloves to Dhruv Jurel after suffering a knee injury. While he batted in the second innings, he did not keep wickets, leaving Jurel to continue those duties. Gambhir reassured that there are no ongoing fitness issues with Pant.
"I believe he will keep wickets tomorrow. There are no other fitness concerns," Gambhir stated.
To enhance India's preparations, Gambhir and the team management have considered including Washington Sundar in the squad. With the all-round trio of Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja already in the lineup, there was speculation on social media about Sundar's addition.
Gambhir explained the rationale behind Sundar's potential inclusion, saying, "We felt they have four or five left-handers in their lineup. Having another bowler who can take the ball away from the left-handers could be advantageous for us."
"However, we haven't finalized our playing XI yet. We think that with two openers and one left-hander in the middle order, Washington can provide us with more control and is a strong option," he added.