Shubman Gill sidelined by food poisoning, return to Vijay Hazare Trophy delayed

Shubman Gill’s return to domestic cricket has been delayed after the India batter missed Punjab’s Vijay Hazare Trophy clash against Sikkim on Saturday due to food poisoning.

Gill arrived in Jaipur on Friday afternoon and was expected to feature in the fifth round of matches. However, following medical consultation, the team management decided to rest him as a precaution, keeping in mind the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11 in Vadodara, where Gill is expected to lead the side.

“Gill didn’t feel well during the night and was advised complete rest by the doctors,” a team source confirmed.

The 25-year-old is understood to be recovering well and is likely to return for Punjab’s sixth-round fixture against Goa on January 6, before linking up with the national ODI squad, which is expected to be announced over the weekend.

Punjab cruise despite Gill’s absence

Gill’s absence had little impact on Punjab’s campaign as they chased down a modest 76-run target in just 6.2 overs. Opener Prabhsimran Singh starred with an unbeaten 53, while the match was set up by pace spearhead Arshdeep Singh, who claimed 5 for 34 — his third five-wicket haul in List A cricket.

Injury-hit phase for Gill

Gill has endured a difficult run with injuries and illnesses in recent months. During the first Test against South Africa, he was forced off the field just three balls into his innings after injuring his neck and subsequently missed the remainder of the series, with Rishabh Pant leading India in Guwahati.

He later suffered a toe injury during the T20I series against South Africa last month, which ultimately led to his omission from India’s squad for the T20 World Cup.