Reports: Shubman Gill available for Punjab's game against Karnataka in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

After Team India’s Test slump, the calls for players to play domestic cricket have intensified. Indian batters' struggle against spin was the main concern in the team’s batting failures at home. When they toured Australia, they could not survive the pace and bounce. Having lost to New Zealand and Australia by 0-3 and 1-3 respectively, the scrutiny over their neglecting domestic cricket has skyrocketed. 

In the first of the troubleshooting process, star India batter, Shubman Gill is poised to grace the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season. According to Hindustan Times, the right-handed batter has made himself available for the Punjab's fixture against Karnataka, when the tournament will resume on January 23.

Notably, Punjab have occupied the second spot in Group C of the tournament. They have won six out of seven games so far and are just behind Karnataka, who have the same number of wins and games played.

“Yes, Shubman Gill is available for Punjab’s Ranji match against Karnataka on January 23,” a source within Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) confirmed to Hindustan Times.

Shubman Gill last appeared for Punjab in 2022

It is worth noting that, Gill has featured in only one red-ball domestic game in the last four years. The 25-year-old was last seen playing for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy 2022, which was a quarterfinal clash against Madhya Pradesh in Bengaluru. He made his Test debut for India with the Boxing Day game against Australia in 2022. Since his debut, this has been his only Ranji appearance.

Also Check: Rohit arrives at Wankhede Stadium to train with Mumbai's Ranji Trophy side

On the other hand, after Rohit Sharma stood down from the Sydney Test against Australia owing to poor form with the bat, he decided to attend Mumbai’s practice sessions. It was also reported that the India Captain has conveyed his decision to management, but his participation in the Ranji Trophy games of Mumbai is yet to be confirmed.