India captain Shubman Gill has been cleared to play the first ODI against the West Indies after suffering a blow to his right elbow during a practice session in Thiruvananthapuram.India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed on Saturday that Gill is fit and expected to be available for the opening match of the three-game ODI series.Key HighlightsShubman Gill was hit on his right elbow during practice.Mohammed Siraj's delivery caused the injury scare.Gill received treatment from India's medical staff.Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said Gill is fit to play.India will face West Indies in the first ODI on September 27.The ODI series will be followed by a five-match T20I series.Shubman Gill Receives Fitness UpdateGill was struck on the right elbow while batting against Mohammed Siraj during India's training session on Friday. The rising delivery hit him on the elbow, after which he immediately walked away from the nets in discomfort.The Indian captain received treatment from team physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain and spent around 20 minutes with the medical staff. Gill did not continue his regular batting session but was later seen more comfortable around the team.The injury initially raised concerns over Gill's availability for the first ODI, particularly with the match only two days away.However, Kotak provided a positive update on Saturday.“Gill is looking good, I think he is good to go tomorrow,” Kotak said while speaking to reporters ahead of the match.India vs West Indies First ODIIndia will begin the three-match ODI series against West Indies on Sunday, September 27, in Thiruvananthapuram.Gill's availability provides clarity for India's top order ahead of the opening match. Kotak also indicated that Rohit Sharma and Gill remain the preferred opening combination for India's ODI plans, while Yashasvi Jaiswal is also part of the squad and remains in contention for opportunities.The series is part of India's preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the team management looking to build combinations across different conditions.Gill's Elbow Blow Comes Amid Injury ConcernsThe incident involving Gill came during a period when several Indian players have dealt with fitness issues.Gill himself had suffered a blow to his ring finger during training ahead of India's Test series in Sri Lanka last month but recovered in time to play the two Tests.The Indian team has also had fitness concerns involving players including Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar and other members of the squad during the year.For now, Kotak's confirmation means Gill is expected to lead India against West Indies in the opening ODI.Rohit Sharma and Gill Opening CombinationKotak also discussed India's opening plans and indicated that Rohit Sharma and Gill are the preferred opening pair in the ODI format.Yashasvi Jaiswal has returned to India's ODI squad for the West Indies series after missing the previous ODI tour of England. Kotak said the competition for places remains strong and urged Jaiswal to continue working on his game while waiting for opportunities.India's management is also looking at different combinations as part of its preparation for the 2027 World Cup.What Happens Next?Gill is expected to take the field when India face West Indies in the first ODI on September 27.The captain's fitness will be closely watched after the recent elbow blow, but the latest update from Kotak indicates that the injury is not expected to prevent him from playing.The remaining two ODIs will be followed by a five-match T20I series between India and West Indies.
