‘Top four set’: Shubman Gill reveals India No.5, No.6 plans ahead of New Zealand ODIs

Shubman Gill (Image credit: TimesofIndia.com) India captain Shubman Gill has outlined the team’s plans for the middle order ahead of the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. Gill said India will adopt a flexible approach for the No.5 and No.6 positions, with Axar Patel and KL Rahul expected to take over those roles depending on the match situation.India will open the series against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday. According to Gill, the top four batting positions are settled while the team is open to changes in the middle order.“We will have a floating approach for No. 5 and No. 6. Our back four is set, all right-handers. So if a left-hander is needed, Axar bhai goes and depending on the match situation, KL bhai can go. Kind of flexible,” Gill said ahead of the opening ODI.

Gill quashes concerns over neck problem

Gill also dismissed concerns about his neck, which has bothered him in the past.The India captain suffered a bulging cervical disc and neck spasm at the end of 2025 which affected his nerves. The injury ruled him out of international cricket for almost a month.He suffered the injury on the second day of the Kolkata Test against South Africa and was taken to hospital for examination after the day’s play. He remained under observation and was released the following day before traveling to Guwahati on 19 November 2025.However, Gill said he did not experience any discomfort and completed his batting and fielding without any problems.“No problem… I batted for almost an hour and a half and also managed the field without any problem. No problem at all,” he said.

India vs New Zealand ODI Series: Complete Schedule

DateDayMatchVenueTime (IST)November 4 Wednesday 1 ODIA Auckland 7:30 November 7 Saturday 2 ODIWellington 7:30 November 10 Tuesday3. 15 Sunday 5 ODIMount Maunganui7:30 AM