Shubman Gill Returns to Red-Ball Cricket Amid Punjab's Knockout Hopes

Shubman Gill, India's Test and ODI captain, is set to play for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy against Saurashtra after a recent ODI series loss to New Zealand. Opting not to take a break, Gill aims to help Punjab keep their knockout hopes alive. This match marks his return to red-ball cricket following a neck injury that sidelined him. With Punjab needing victories in their remaining matches, Gill's presence at the top of the order is crucial for their ambitions. His commitment to domestic cricket highlights its importance in maintaining form and fitness.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 20, 2026, 16:06 IST

Shubman Gill's Determined Comeback

New Delhi: Shubman Gill, the captain of India's Test and ODI teams, has opted to skip a break following the recent ODI series defeat against New Zealand. He is set to participate in the upcoming Ranji Trophy match for Punjab against Saurashtra in Rajkot, commencing Thursday.

Having played in all three ODIs of the recently concluded series, which India lost 1-2, Gill is eager to dive back into red-ball cricket as he is not included in the T20 World Cup squad.

At 26, Gill aims to assist Punjab in their quest to keep their slim chances of advancing to the knockout stage alive in this prestigious domestic tournament.

According to a source close to the Punjab team, "Shubman chose not to take a break after the ODI series, and it took him eight hours to travel from Indore to Rajkot due to the lack of direct flights."

Currently, Punjab sits sixth in Group B, accumulating 11 points from five matches.

With three league matches remaining, the former champions must secure victories in all their upcoming games to maintain any realistic hope of reaching the knockout rounds.

Gill's role at the top of the batting order is deemed vital for Punjab's aspirations.

This match against Saurashtra, the reigning champions of the domestic circuit, will also be Gill's first red-ball game since he suffered a neck injury during the Test series against South Africa, which sidelined him for an extended period.

His return is anticipated to greatly enhance Punjab's batting lineup, which has struggled with consistency this season.

Despite his increasing responsibilities on the international stage, Gill has consistently emphasized the significance of domestic cricket for maintaining form and fitness.