Shubman Gill to miss Punjab’s Ranji Trophy opener against Assam

India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill is expected to miss Punjab’s opening Ranji Trophy match against Assam in New Chandigarh. While the specific reason for his absence from the first fixture has not been disclosed, he is anticipated to return for the team’s second match against Chhattisgarh, scheduled for October 18–21.

In Gill’s absence, former India Under-19 captain Uday Saharan will lead the Punjab squad. The national selection committee has previously encouraged available international players to participate in at least one Ranji Trophy game to maintain readiness for the red-ball format. Other international players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, and Akash Deep, are also participating in the tournament with their respective state teams.

Playing in the Ranji Trophy may provide Gill with necessary match practice ahead of India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand, where he is expected to feature in the initial ODI series before the Test matches.