India captain Shubman Gill endured a disappointing return to Ranji Trophy cricket, scoring just one run for Punjab against Chhattisgarh in their second-round fixture at the PCA New Chandigarh Stadium on Sunday, October 18.
Gill, who missed Punjab’s opening match of the season against Assam, returned to domestic cricket to gain valuable red-ball practice ahead of India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. However, his first innings ended after facing just 10 deliveries.
Batting at No. 4, Gill was bowled by left-arm spinner Ajay Mandal for one run as Punjab lost their third wicket. Mandal had earlier dismissed Harnoor Singh, putting the hosts under pressure after Punjab elected to bat first.
Gill Looks for Red-Ball Preparation
The Ranji Trophy appearance offered Gill an opportunity to spend time at the crease and prepare for the demands of first-class cricket. His early dismissal, however, meant he missed the chance to build an innings and gain extended match practice.
Gill’s return to domestic cricket comes after an impressive performance in India’s recent three-match ODI series against the West Indies. He scored 334 runs at an average of 167, including a remarkable 223 off 133 balls in the second ODI.
The India captain will now look to make the most of the remaining opportunities to prepare for the next international assignment.
New Zealand Tour Awaits
Gill is part of India’s squads for both the ODI and Test series against New Zealand and is set to captain the team in both formats.
The five-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on November 4. The Test series will follow, with the opening match set to start in Wellington on November 19 and the second Test scheduled in Christchurch from November 27.
With the New Zealand tour approaching, domestic cricket provides Gill and other India players with an opportunity to build match readiness before returning to international duties.
Although his Ranji Trophy return did not produce the substantial innings he would have wanted, Gill will have to focus on the upcoming fixtures as India prepare for a challenging tour.
