Shubman Gill announces Vijay Hazare Trophy availability ahead of New Zealand ODI tour

Indian captain Shubman Gill boosted his campaign, as he is all set to make a return to action for Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His comeback has come at a very crucial juncture for the Punjab team as they are on the quest to seal a spot in the knockout stages of the premier one-day domestic tournament. 

Shubman Gill has reported his availability for Punjab in the upcoming games in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His availability has been confirmed for two matches on January 3rd and 6th. The two matches will be played against Sikkim and Goa, respectively. 

The Indian veteran was named the skipper of the Indian Test and ODI team in 2025, and for this purpose, he will be joining the Punjab squad during their stay in Jaipur. Punjab began the campaign in a commanding fashion, winning its first two games. 

“He will join the team in Jaipur around January 1 for those two games,” said the PCA official through Sportstar. 

Shubman Gill's national duty conflicts with his domestic schedule 

On his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Punjab, Gill will have to manage his national schedule, since the ODI series against New Zealand will also be around the corner. The tour begins on January 11th, and the Indian team is scheduled to host a short preparation camp. 

Shubman Gill has also shown a willingness to be part of the Punjab team for the match against Mumbai. However, his availability depends on the preparatory camp and its supposed schedule. 

"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," confirmed the PCA source of Sportstar. 

Shubman Gill's domestic comeback after T20 World Cup snub 

Gill was sidelined from cricket with injuries and then made a return in the T20I series. However, Gill failed to put on a promising performance in the series, as he could manage to go past the double-digits just once in the series. 

Gill's decision to return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy came after the BCCI had made it mandatory for all nationally contracted players. He has been snubbed from the Indian T20I team and hence would now be part of the domestic competition alongside renowned Indian players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh.  

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