Shubman Gill to play THIS tournament after T20 World Cup 2026 snub
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Shubman Gill was dropped from the Indian side for the T20 World Cup 2026 despite being the vice-captain.
Shubman Gill is all set to return to domestic cricket as he prepares to feature in second leg of Ranji Trophy 2025-26. Gill will return to domestic duty in Punjab’s fixture against Saurashtra in Rajkot, starting January 22.
The Indian Test and ODI captain’s participation has been confirmed by sources close to Cricbuzz in Rajkot. This underlines his commitment to domestic cricket despite a packed international schedule.
Shubman Gill was last seen leading India in the third ODI against New Zealand in Indore January 18. Wasting no time, the stylish right-hander flew to Delhi on Monday morning and is scheduled to travel onward to Rajkot to link up with the Punjab squad. According to sources, Gill is still in Delhi, making logistical arrangements to ensure his availability for the Ranji Trophy match.
“His participation in the Ranji fixture is confirmed. He will take part in the Saurashtra game,” a Punjab Cricket Association source said. “The India captain is flying eight hours to feature in a domestic game. That is commitment.”
Gill’s return comes at a crucial juncture for Punjab, who are currently placed in the lower half of Elite Group B. In the five matches played, Punjab have only registered one win. Punjab’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages rest heavily on outright victories in their remaining two fixtures.
Following the Saurashtra game, Punjab will face Karnataka from January 29, a contest that could ultimately decide their Ranji Trophy fate.
Shubman Gill’s return gives Punjab knockout hopes
Punjab are being led by Naman Dhir this season and have struggled for consistency so far. Gill’s presence is expected to significantly strengthen the batting unit.
Shubman Gill’s participation will be crucial, especially against a strong Saurashtra side that will also feature Ravindra Jadeja. Jadeja, also a part of the ODI squad, will turn out for Saurashtra in the same fixture, adding further intrigue to the contest.
His decision to turn up for domestic duty despite India beginning a five-match T20I series against New Zealand reflects the growing emphasis on top international players staying connected with the domestic structure.
Meanwhile, the Indian team has already reached Nagpur for the first T20I against New Zealand, scheduled for January 21. Gill was dropped from the side when the squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 was annonced.
However, his immediate switch to Ranji duties once again highlights his willingness to balance leadership responsibilities at the international level with contributions to state cricket.
As the Ranji Trophy enters a decisive phase, all eyes will be on Rajkot, where Shubman Gill’s participation could prove to be a turning point for Punjab’s campaign.
When will Shubman Gill play his Ranji Trophy match?
Shubman Gill will feature in Punjab’s Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra starting January 22 in Rajkot.
Which team does Shubman Gill represent in domestic cricket?
Shubman Gill represents Punjab in the domestic cricket.
When did Shubman Gill last feature in Ranji Trophy?
Shubman Gill last featured in Punjab’s fixture against Karnataka in the previous season.
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Vishwajit Sawant is a sports content writer with two years of experience who believes in writing that feels honest, simple, and easy to read. He enjoys breaking down sporting moments into stories readers can genuinely connect with, without relying on fancy vocabulary. His work spans cricket, football, basketball, tennis, and Formula 1, with a focus on match previews, reviews, and reports. Vishwajit believes good content doesn’t need to be loud — it just needs to leave a subtle impact.