Shubman Gill Returns to Lead India in ODI Series Against New Zealand
Following a period away due to injury, Shubman Gill is set to lead the Indian cricket team as captain in the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. The series is scheduled to commence on January 11, with subsequent matches on January 14 and 18.
Shreyas Iyer’s Potential Return Under Fitness Clearance
Batsman Shreyas Iyer is also anticipated to make a comeback after missing approximately two months due to an injury. His inclusion in the squad is contingent upon receiving a fitness clearance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Iyer has been undergoing rehabilitation following a spleen injury sustained in October, as confirmed by the BCCI. This return, should it be approved, will bolster India’s batting lineup.
Key Absences and Load Management
Notably absent from the 15-man squad for the ODI fixtures are all-rounder Hardik Pandya and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. The BCCI indicated that Hardik Pandya has not received clearance from the Centre of Excellence (CoE) to bowl the required overs for a match. This decision is part of a strategy to manage his workload, especially with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on the horizon.
Shubman Gill’s Path Back to Captaincy
Shubman Gill, who suffered a foot injury in training last month, was previously excluded from India’s squad for the T20 World Cup. He is expected to participate in domestic cricket next week, a crucial step before resuming his captaincy duties for the 50-over format. This return signifies his recovery and readiness to lead the team.
Series Overview and Future Engagements
Prior to the ODIs, India will compete in a series of five T20 matches against New Zealand later this month. This serves as valuable preparation for the T20 World Cup campaign, which begins with a group fixture against the United States on February 7. As reported by SindhNews.com, the BCCI aims to ensure all players are match-fit for major tournaments.
India’s squad for the ODI series against New Zealand includes Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer (subject to fitness), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The return of Shubman Gill as captain, alongside the potential comeback of Shreyas Iyer, signals a strengthening of India’s capabilities in the ODI format, while considerations for player workload remain paramount for upcoming international commitments.