Shubman Gill down with the physio during IND vs WI ODIs | PC- AFP
Team India is set to kick off the ODI series against New Zealand on Wednesday with the first of the five matches scheduled. The series-opener will be played at Eden Park, Auckland.
As the Shubman Gill-led side starts yet another assignment in its quest to win the ODI World Cup in 2027, the two-time World Champions are leaving no stone unturned.
Meanwhile, ahead of the massive series Down Under, captain Gill spoke about his old wound, i.e. his neck injury.
"No issues with neck" - Shubman Gill declares himself fit
While speaking to the press on the eve of the first ODI against New Zealand, Shubman Gill spoke at length about his preparation for the upcoming tour and his neck injury.
The Indian captain himself declared him fit, saying he had no physical discomfort or fitness-related issues while batting in the nets. He also said he batted for close to 30 minutes and did his fielding drills without any hassle.
"No issue… I batted for close to one and a half hours and did my fielding without any trouble too. No issue at all," Shubman Gill told the media after Tuesday's practice session.
Gill had a neck issue about a year ago during the home Tests against South Africa. Since then, the 27-year-old has had episodes of neck issues.
From U-19 World Cup glory to leading India: Shubman Gill's New Zealand Homecoming
Nevertheless, the upcoming fixture in the IND vs NZ tour will be the first outing for many Indian stars, including Shubman Gill.
Life has come full circle for the Indian captain, who made his ODI debut in New Zealand in 2019 before establishing himself as an opener Down Under on his next tour. He announced himself during the Under-19 World Cup 2018 in Aotearoa. Now, the stylish batter is on his third tour of New Zealand, but this time as India's captain.
Moreover, Gill is not just the flagbearer for his team but is among the best batters in the world. He has been batting like a dream in 2026, scoring 895 runs at an average of 111.87. No batter has scored more ODI centuries than him this year.
