IND vs SL: Why is Shubman Gill not playing in second T20I against Sri Lanka in Pallekele?

The current T20 champions, India, are currently facing off against Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series. Following their victory in the series opener by 43 runs, the Men in Blue are aiming to secure a commanding 2-0 lead in the second game.

It is worth noting that India's vice-captain, Shubman Gill, will not be participating in the second T20I, with Sanju Samson taking his place. India's T20I skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, confirmed this change during the toss and provided insight into the reason for Gill's absence from the lineup.

Having won the toss and choosing to field first, Suryakumar confirmed that Gill is sidelined due to a neck spasm, paving the way for Samson to make his return to the team.

"We will look to bowl first. There is a bit of weather around and the wicket played better in the second innings. There are always areas to improve even when you win a game, you keep learning and you keep improving. Gill misses out as he woke up with a neck spasm, Samson comes in," Surya said at the toss. 

India and Sri Lanka's Playing XIs:

India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Siraj

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka(c), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ramesh Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Asitha Fernando

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