India vs Australia: BCCI identifies former RCB batter as injured Shubman Gill replacement - Report

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India vs Australia: Shubman Gill's thumb fracture has ruled him out of the first Test against Australia in Perth, prompting the BCCI to retain former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal as his replacement.

Shubman Gill sustained the injury during a training session at the WACA while attempting a catch in the slips on the second day of India's three-day simulation. Scans have confirmed the fracture, sidelining him for at least two weeks.

Padikkal, a prominent part of the India A squad currently in Australia, has been asked to stay on as a backup batter, reported Sportstar. The 23-year-old southpaw was initially set to return to India with the rest of the India A contingent but will now remain with the senior team to provide additional depth.

Known for his composed batting style, Padikkal could potentially make his Test debut if team management deems him ready. His inclusion comes at a critical time as India aims to stabilize their top order ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener on November 22.

Padikkal rose to prominence during the 2020 IPL season with Royal Challengers Bangalore, earning the Emerging Player of the Year award. He impressed with 473 runs in 15 matches during his debut season, showcasing remarkable consistency. In 2021, he scored his maiden IPL century, an unbeaten 101, to guide RCB to a comprehensive win over the Rajasthan Royals.

Despite his early success, Padikkal was released by RCB after a less impressive stint in subsequent seasons. He moved to Rajasthan Royals in 2022, where he scored his 1,000th IPL run, and later to Lucknow Super Giants in 2024 through a trade.

Meanwhile, India's preparation Down Under sees no end to misery as KL Rahul, who suffered an elbow injury during practice, remains uncertain for the Perth Test. Adding to the challenges, captain Rohit Sharma is also unavailable for the first Test following the birth of his second child in Mumbai.

India's team management faces a tricky situation with multiple injuries to key players. Padikkal's retention signals the importance of having a ready replacement as India seeks a strong start to the series. With his IPL experience and ability to adapt under pressure, Padikkal could play a pivotal role in the high-stakes contest.