Shubman Gill Struck by Ben Stokes Bouncer in Tense Test Match; India Captain Survives Scary Blow Gill Hit by Stokes Delivery; Physio Checks on India Star After Helmet Impact

Shubman Gill, the Indian captain, experienced a worrying moment during the fifth day of the fourth Test against England when he was struck on the helmet by a brutal delivery from Ben Stokes. The incident occurred on Sunday at Old Trafford, Manchester.

Shubman Gill visibly shaken after the blow from Stokes' delivery.

The incident took place during the 73rd over of India's second innings, a critical juncture as the team was attempting to stabilize after losing early wickets.

On a pitch known for its unpredictable bounce, Stokes delivered a short ball that reared up sharply, hitting Gill's glove before ricocheting onto the side of his helmet.

The ball struck the helmet's grille after impacting Gill's index finger, creating a tense moment where it appeared it might deflect onto the stumps. Gill, displaying evident discomfort, reacted quickly to prevent the ball from hitting the wickets.

Immediately following the impact, he moved away from the crease and threw his bat down. The Indian team's physio rushed onto the field to conduct concussion and hand assessments, while Stokes also approached Gill to check on his condition.

Fortunately, after receiving treatment, Gill was able to resume batting and continued to build the innings alongside Washington Sundar.

At the time of the incident, Gill was batting on 90, having formed a resilient partnership after KL Rahul’s earlier dismissal at the same score. The pair had contributed a vital 174-run stand on Day 4, keeping India competitive.

Despite an early setback with the dismissals of Jaiswal and Sudharsan in the innings' first over, India mounted a comeback. Currently positioned at 193/3 and trailing by 118 runs, the match remains finely balanced.

England's imposing first-innings total of 669, bolstered by Stokes's impressive 141, had initially put India under pressure. However, India's resilience, exemplified by Gill's determined innings, is ensuring a captivating contest.