Shubman Gill to lead India in New Zealand series
The Indian captain views the upcoming tour as a way to build confidence for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Indian captain Shubman Gill is set to lead the national side during the upcoming series in New Zealand, according to a Times of India report. Gill, who previously won the U-19 World Cup and made his ODI debut in New Zealand, spoke at a pre-series press conference in Auckland.
Gill said that playing at different venues will provide experience to help the team in the 2027 ODI World Cup. He noted that the T20 series showed there has been good bounce with the new ball, which will challenge both the bowling and batting sides.
The captain described the Indian bowling attack as young but said the squad has the qualities to succeed. He mentioned that performing in New Zealand will help young players gain confidence, even if the team composition changes for the World Cup.
Regarding the batting line-up, Gill said the top four positions are mostly set with right-handed batters. He explained that the No. 5 and No. 6 positions remain flexible depending on the match situation and the number of overs remaining.
Gill noted that the team would look more balanced if Hardik Pandya were available, as his presence would sort the No. 7 and No. 8 positions. In his absence, the captain is looking to figure out the middle order.
The bowling options for the series include Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, Anshul Kamboj, Arshdeep Singh, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who will play in the first ODI only.