India Test and ODI captain
Gill’s inclusion comes after he sat out Punjab’s opening match of the 2026-27 season against Assam in New Chandigarh. During his absence, the side was led by former India Under-19 captain Uday Saharan. The return of the national skipper provides a significant boost to the Punjab lineup as they look to build momentum in the tournament.
Recent form and national selection outlook
The decision to return to domestic action follows a period of exceptional form for the right-handed batter. Gill recently earned the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for the fifth time, a feat that draws him level with West Indies captain Hayley Matthews. This recognition follows his standout displays during the recent ODI series against the West Indies, where he demonstrated his ability to dominate bowling attacks.
His performance in the series was highlighted by a century in the opening ODI in Thiruvananthapuram, where he scored 110. He followed this with a remarkable 223 off just 133 balls, an innings that secured a comfortable victory for his side. During that match, India successfully chased down a target of 406 with eight wickets in hand and 39 balls remaining.
Focus shifts to New Zealand tour selection
While Gill prepares for his domestic return, the national selectors are turning their attention to the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Although the T20I squad for the five-match series has already been finalised, the selection process for the ODI squad remains ongoing.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed on Wednesday that the selection committee is expected to announce the ODI squad within the next two to three days. As the national team looks ahead to the New Zealand series, the domestic performances of key players like Gill in the Ranji Trophy will remain a focal point for the selectors.
