All eyes on Shubman Gill as India’s Test and ODI captain is set to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 clash between Punjab and Sikkim on January 3. However, fans hoping to see the captain in action will be disappointed, as the fixture is scheduled to be played behind closed doors. The match will take place at the Jaipuria Vidyalaya ground, a venue that lacks the necessary infrastructure and seating to accommodate the public.
Why Shubman Gill’s VHT appearance against Sikkim will be behind closed doors?
This starkly contrasts with last week’s scenes at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, where over 20,000 spectators gathered to watch Rohit Sharma play for Mumbai. The Jaipuria Vidyalaya ground is located within a school campus and offers no dedicated spectator stands. While a small gallery exists above the locker rooms, access is strictly limited to BCCI delegates, school staff, and academy students, leaving regular fans on the outside.
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The intensity of fan interest was on full display just days ago when Yashasvi Jaiswal played at the same venue for Mumbai. Hundreds of supporters, unable to enter the premises, resorted to climbing high perimeter walls just to catch a glimpse of the young opener. Despite the lack of official seating, the crowd’s enthusiasm was acknowledged by Jaiswal, who waved to the fans perched on the walls.
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Unfortunately for those following Gill's return to competitive cricket after a short hiatus, the situation is even more restrictive. With no live streaming available for this particular match and the 'no spectator' policy in full effect at the ground, fans will have no way to watch the star batter’s performance against Sikkim.
Mumbai vs HP match to meet same fate
The restriction on spectators isn't limited to Gill’s appearance, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, is also expected to face a quiet stadium when he turns out for Mumbai against Himachal Pradesh on January 6. Despite the star power involved, RCA official Deen Dayal Kumawat dismissed rumors that high-profile games would be moved to the 25,000-capacity Sawai Mansingh Stadium. While Jaipur has multiple BCCI-affiliated grounds, the others—such as KL Saini and Anantam—only have temporary seating and present significant security challenges for hosting large crowds.