Shubman Gill’s return to Ranji Trophy cricket did not go as planned. The India captain lasted just 10 balls before being bowled for one by left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal during Punjab’s second-round match against Chhattisgarh at the PCA New Chandigarh Stadium on Sunday.
Gill walked in at No. 4 but failed to make an impact with the bat. Mandal had already dismissed Harnoor Singh before sending Gill back to the pavilion, putting Punjab under pressure after the hosts opted to bat first.
Gill Misses Out On Valuable Red-Ball Practice
Gill had skipped Punjab’s opening match against Assam, making the game against Chhattisgarh an important opportunity to get some time in the middle before India’s tour of New Zealand.
With the upcoming tour featuring both ODIs and Tests, the right-handed batter was looking to get some much-needed practice in first-class cricket. However, his stay at the crease ended before he could settle in.
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Gill To Lead India In ODIs And Tests Against New Zealand
The 27-year-old is part of India’s squads for both formats and will captain the team in the ODI and Test series against New Zealand.
The three-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on November 4, while the first Test will start in Wellington on November 19. The second Test is set to be played in Christchurch from November 27.
Gill will be hoping to carry his recent form into the upcoming tour, particularly in the longer format, where spending time at the crease will be important.
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Impressive Show Against West Indies
Gill comes into the New Zealand series on the back of a strong performance in India’s home ODI series against the West Indies. He finished with 334 runs at an average of 167 across three matches.
His standout performance came in the second ODI, when he scored 223 off just 133 balls. India went on to chase down the target successfully, with Gill playing a key role in the victory.
His short outing against Chhattisgarh means he will have to wait for another opportunity to spend more time in the middle. With the New Zealand tour approaching, Gill will be keen to make the most of his next chance in red-ball cricket.