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India's ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill has wasted no time in returning to the grind after his surprising omission from India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad and the subsequent T20I series against New Zealand. Despite having served as vice-captain during the recent T20I tour of South Africa, the star opener found himself left out of the home World Cup roster. In a shift of leadership dynamics for the upcoming marquee event co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the selectors opted for all-rounder Axar Patel as the new vice-captain.
After T20 WC snub, Shubman Gill returns to intense batting practice session
Undeterred by the snub, Gill has shifted his focus to rigorous training at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali. Eyewitnesses at the nets observed the 26-year-old playing a series of majestic shots across both sides of the wicket, appearing determined to fine-tune his technique. These intense batting sessions signal his intent to move past the disappointment and prepare for a heavy schedule in the new year.
While his T20I future may be under scrutiny, Gill remains a vital pillar of India’s 50-over strategy. The Test and ODI captain is expected to rejoin the national squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, scheduled from January 11 to 18. This upcoming series will provide him with a prime opportunity to reaffirm his status as one of the world's premier opening batters in the longer white-ball format.
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In a bid to maintain match fitness and sharpen his game, Gill has committed to playing for Punjab in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Although he was included in the state squad, he was absent from the lineup during Punjab's recent 51-run victory over Maharashtra at the Anantam Ground in Jaipur. Fans are now looking toward Punjab’s next fixture against Chhattisgarh on Friday, December 26, as a likely opportunity for the star batter to make his tournament debut and find his rhythm.
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