Shubman Gill Praises Hardik Pandya's Unique All-Round Skills Ahead of ODI Series
Gill Highlights Pandya's Value to the Team
In Auckland, New Zealand, on November 3, India’s captain Shubman Gill spoke about the significant role Hardik Pandya plays in the squad, labeling him as a unique all-rounder whose contributions with both bat and ball are crucial. Gill pointed out Pandya's adaptability as a fast-bowling all-rounder, capable of bowling effectively at various stages of the game.
Expressing concern over Pandya's extended absence since the IPL 2026, Gill mentioned that the team management has been in consistent touch with him. He expressed optimism that Pandya would soon regain his fitness, participate in domestic matches, and make a comeback to the national team.
Gill addressed reporters on the eve of India's first ODI against New Zealand, scheduled for Tuesday. He stated, "Hardik is an exceptional player, and the skills he brings are rare. Few players globally can genuinely be fast-bowling all-rounders who can bowl in every phase of the game, whether it’s with the new ball, during the middle overs, or at the death. His batting prowess adds immense value to the team."
He continued, "It’s unfortunate that he hasn’t played since the IPL. We’ve had several discussions with him, and he was expected to participate in the India matches, but he faced some injuries just before that. We hope he recovers soon, plays some domestic cricket, and returns to the Indian team shortly."
Pandya's return to competitive cricket faced another hurdle due to a shin injury, which kept him out of the three-match ODI series against Australia A in October. He was initially included in the India A squad for the 50-over matches starting October 6 in Puducherry, pending fitness clearance, but was advised to rest for 15 days after the injury.
Gill also mentioned the difficulties of managing ODI and Test commitments due to the tight scheduling of the two series. While he would have preferred all World Cup probables to participate in all five ODIs, he emphasized the importance of the upcoming Test matches, especially with the World Test Championship race intensifying.
The five-match ODI series is set to commence on November 4. India will field a different squad for the last two ODIs, with key players, including Gill, missing out to focus on the Test series preparations. Shreyas Iyer will assume captaincy duties in Gill's absence.
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah, who was not part of the ODI squad, will return to lead India's bowling attack in the Test series, which begins on November 19 in Wellington.
Gill remarked, "Both formats hold equal significance. If it were solely my decision and all players were fit, I would prefer the entire squad considered for the World Cup to play all matches. However, we must also recognize the critical nature of the two Test matches."
He added, "If there had been a T20 series between the ODI and Test assignments, we could have played all five matches. However, the close scheduling of the ODI and Test series complicates player management. The World Test Championship scenario has also become more intriguing following the recent Australia-South Africa series, making the points table more competitive."
Gill concluded by stating that players selected for the Test squad would need to miss the final two ODIs to prepare for the longer format, as India aims to enhance their standing in the WTC rankings.