Gujarat Titans Captain Shubman Gill Confirmed for Vijay Hazare Trophy Return Ahead of New Zealand ODIs

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill is set to make a timely return to competitive cricket, featuring for Punjab in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT). The star opener, who was sidelined due to a neck injury sustained during a recent Test match, has completed his rehabilitation and is focused on regaining match fitness ahead of the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Gill is confirmed to play in at least two high-stakes group-stage matches for Punjab. He is scheduled to face Sikkim on January 3 and Goa on January 6, with both fixtures taking place in Jaipur. These matches are strategically important, serving as a crucial warm-up to ensure the prolific white-ball batter is in peak rhythm before linking up with the national squad for the New Zealand series, which begins on January 11.

His return provides a significant boost to the Punjab side, which is currently fighting for a top spot in the VHT points table. Gill's stability and scoring prowess at the top of the order will be vital for both his domestic side and the Indian team as they kick off their 2026 international calendar.