In a major boost for their campaign, Indian batting star Shubman Gill is set to return to action for Punjab in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy group stage matches.
His comeback comes at a critical juncture as Punjab aims to secure a knockout berth in India’s premier domestic one-day competition.
Shubman Gill Returns to Bolster Punjab for Key Vijay Hazare Trophy Clashes
Shubman Gill has confirmed his availability for Punjab’s upcoming group matches against Sikkim and Goa, scheduled for January 3 and January 6, respectively, in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26.
India’s Test and ODI captain is expected to join the Punjab squad in Jaipur around New Year’s Day, giving the team a major boost after their strong start to the competition.
A Timely Boost for Punjab’s Campaign
Punjab has started their Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 campaign strongly, winning their opening two matches against Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. Gill’s inclusion provides a formidable upgrade to their top order as they face must-win encounters to qualify from the Elite Group.
The right-handed batter’s presence is expected to add significant firepower and experience to the batting lineup. There is also hope that Shubman Gill might also play Punjab’s final group match against Mumbai, but it depends on the BCCI’s clearance.
The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) was quoted as saying by Sportstar: “He will join the team in Jaipur around January 1 for those two games. While he is interested in playing the final group league fixture against Mumbai as well, it will all depend on the BCCI’s scheduling for the camps ahead of the home series against New Zealand.”
The Return Schedule & National Duty Conflict
Shubman Gill will have to manage his return to Punjab duty, as he is all set to lead India in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11. The national team is likely to hold a short preparation camp a few days before the New Zealand series, possibly in Vadodara.
If that camp overlaps, Gill may have to miss Punjab’s Vijay Hazare game against Mumbai to join national duty. So, he is confirmed for the matches against Sikkim and Goa only for now. His third appearance depends on the preparatory camp, as Gill may need to depart early.
Comeback From Injury Setback
Gill has been sidelined from competitive cricket for a while due to injury issues. He was recovering from an impact injury to his right foot and missed the final T20I against South Africa and had also missed the second Test in Guwahati last month because of a neck problem.
During this recovery phase, the right-handed batter stayed in Mohali and focused on training rather than rushing back into matches in the ongoing 50-over tournament.
The Bigger Picture: Stars in Domestic Cricket
Gill’s decision to return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy comes after the BCCI made it mandatory for all the contracted players to take part in domestic tournaments if they are fit and free from national duty.
As the group stage continues, the Punjab team management will be eager to leverage Gill’s proven white-ball pedigree. Earlier, international stars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Rinku Singh made the headlines with their excellent performances for their respective teams.