Shubman Gill carries purifier worth 3 Lakh to avoid Indore water contamination

Shubman Gill (Source: X)

Indore is all set to host a high-voltage clash as India and New Zealand gear up for the third and final ODI on Sunday, January 18, at the Holkar Cricket Stadium. The three-match series is currently tied 1-1, making this encounter a virtual do-or-die for both sides.

Riding high on confidence after leveling the series in the second ODI, New Zealand will look to exploit India’s minor weaknesses, particularly in the spin department.

For India, the squad appears well-balanced. Captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer have returned to form, while Virat Kohli is showing solid touch in the middle order. KL Rahul has been a reliable presence in the latter stages of the innings.

Rohit Sharma, however, will be eager to convert starts into big scores in the third ODI. The pacers have delivered consistent performances, but the Indian spinners have struggled to make breakthroughs.

It is important to note that on Friday, the Indian team rested while New Zealand practised. The Indian players are expected to practice on Saturday ahead of the high-voltage encounter.

Shubman Gill keeps advanced purifier in hotel room

In a significant development, India’s ODI captain Shubman Gill has arrived in Indore with a high-tech water purification machine worth nearly ₹3 lakh ahead of the third and final ODI against New Zealand.

According to hotel sources, the advanced water purifier brought by Shubman Gill can purify even RO-treated water. 

The device has reportedly been installed inside the captain’s personal hotel room. The hotel staff have not been given detailed information regarding the purifier’s technology or usage.

The purifier is reported to be of high specification, capable of re-purifying even bottled water that is considered safe. By installing it in his hotel room, Gill has taken personal precautions to ensure the highest standard of water safety for himself.

Why is Shubman Gill carrying his own purifier?

According to several reports, the step may have been prompted by the recent water contamination crisis in Indore, which claimed 24 lives in the Bhagirathpura area.

The government has acknowledged 15 deaths in court, provided compensation to 21 families, and is currently treating six patients in the ICU, with some on ventilator support.

The media manager for Team India declined to comment on the exact reasons for bringing the purifier. It remains unclear whether it is directly linked to the recent water crisis or part of the captain’s personal safety protocol.

BCCI sends special chefs to ensure players' diet

Alongside water safety, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has sent special chefs with the team to manage players' nutrition and fitness. Each player's meals are prepared according to their diet requirements. 

For example, Virat Kohli’s meals include sprouts, green grilled vegetables, dal, soup, and raita, while Rohit Sharma’s diet includes almonds, oats, fruits, paneer, and vegetables. 

The menu also includes chicken, fish, eggs, brown rice, lentils, nuts, coconut water, and green tea to keep the players hydrated and in top form.