Sarfaraz Khan - who slammed a stunning double century for Mumbai in the Duleep Trophy - would be the favourite to replace Gill in the lineup. After a good start to his Test career against England, Sarfaraz could've considered himself a tad unlucky to miss out after the return of KL Rahul from injury.

Star India batter Shubman Gill will likely miss the first Test of the three-match series against New Zealand in Bengaluru. The 25-year-old has a stiff neck and has spent most of his training time at the physio’s table in the last couple of days.

India's Test series against New Zealand faces injury concern as Shubman Gill's stiff neck may cause him to miss the first game. Sarfaraz Khan is a potential replacement.

While these concerns are not deeply rooted, they serve as cautionary points against a New Zealand attack that has capable hands in pacers Matt Henry, William O'Rourke and the experienced Tim Southee, if he gets to play here after a sharp decline in his form.

Team India batter Shubman Gill is suffering with a stiff neck and a call on his participation in the 1st Test vs New Zealand in Bengaluru will be taken on Wednesday morning.

According to a report, Gill informed the team management about the issue on October 14 though final decision will be taken before coin toss.

India have confirmed Jasprit Bumrah as the vice-captain of the Test team for the three-match series against New Zealand. Bumrah has been part of the leadership group for a long time but the BCCI did not name a vice-captain for the Bangladesh series.

India and New Zealand are preparing to face off in a three-match Test series, beginning in Bangalore on October 16. It is a series with big ramifications for the World Test Championship as India look to seal the qualification for a third consecutive finals.