Shubman Gill falls for 1 on Ranji Trophy return before New Zealand Tests

Shubman Gill’s return to the Ranji Trophy did not go as planned as the Indian skipper was dismissed for just one run while playing for Punjab against Chhattisgarh at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on Sunday. Gill, who came in to bat at No. 4, lasted just five batters before being bowled by left-armer Ajay Mandal in the 27th over.

Gill walked out to bat after Vihaan Malhotra was dismissed on the first ball of the 26th over. He opened his account with a single off the second delivery he faced but could not build on it. Mandal beat the Indian skipper’s defense with a delivery that held its line and went through the gap between bat and pad before hitting the middle stump. Gill’s dismissal left Punjab at 68/3, marking a premature end to their first appearance in a domestic red-ball competition this season.

The 27-year-old missed the opening round of the Ranji Trophy but returned for Punjab’s second game to get much-needed time in the middle ahead of India’s tour of New Zealand. With a demanding international schedule, the match gave Gill an opportunity to test his technique in first-class conditions and hone his game ahead of the two-Test series against the Black Caps.

GILL’S RANJI RETURN BEFORE NEW ZEALAND

Gill’s involvement in domestic cricket comes amid the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s emphasis on ensuring top international players come to their national teams when their international commitments allow. First-class matches offer batsmen a chance to work on their game against quality bowling in competitive conditions, something that training sessions alone cannot replicate.

For Gill, the match against Chhattisgarh was an opportunity to get used to the demands of red-ball cricket before taking on India on the tour of New Zealand. However, his early release meant he had little time to settle in at the crease or face a long spell of the carousel.

India are scheduled to play five ODIs and two Tests during the six-week tour, with Gill expected to lead the side in both formats. While the limited-overs matches will be part of India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the Test series will carry significant weight in the team’s bid to stay in contention for a place in the World Test Championship final.

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