India’s young batting star Shubman Gill is set to play two matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 as part of his preparation for the upcoming India vs New Zealand ODI series at home. This short domestic stint is planned to help Gill regain match rhythm after missing recent international games due to injury.
Why Shubman Gill Is Playing Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches
Gill has been named in Punjab’s 18-member squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but he did not feature in the first two group matches. The plan is clear — play limited games, get back into form, and be fully ready for the ODIs against New Zealand.
After recovering from a neck injury and a minor issue during the T20I phase, Gill has resumed training and is slowly building his workload.
Matches Shubman Gill Is Likely to Play
Gill is expected to feature in Punjab’s fifth and sixth group-stage matches, which will be played in Jaipur.
Shubman Gill – Expected Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches
| Match No. | Opponent | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match 1 | Sikkim | January 3, 2026 | Jaipur |
| Match 2 | Goa | January 6, 2026 | Jaipur |
Gill is likely to join the Punjab squad around December 29, when the team takes on Uttarakhand. He may link up with the squad in Jaipur around January 1.
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Possible Third Match vs Mumbai
There is also a chance that Gill could play Punjab’s final group match against Mumbai, but this depends on the BCCI’s schedule for the national team’s preparatory camps ahead of the New Zealand series.
Injury Update and Training Status
Gill missed India’s ODI series against South Africa after suffering a neck injury during the Kolkata Test. He also picked up a small issue during the T20I leg. However, he has now returned to training and was recently seen practicing at the PCA Stadium in Mohali, indicating positive progress.
Importance Ahead of IND vs NZ ODIs
With the India vs New Zealand ODI series coming up, these domestic matches are important for Gill to:
- Regain batting rhythm
- Adjust to match pressure
- Build confidence after injury
- Prepare for longer ODI innings
The BCCI is expected to announce India’s ODI squad in early January, likely around January 3 or 4.
Shubman Gill’s short return to domestic cricket shows a careful and smart approach toward international comeback. If he performs well in these Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, it will boost his chances of making a strong impact in the India vs New Zealand ODIs.
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