India’s Test captain Shubman Gill will sit out the opening fixtures of the 2025–26 Duleep Trophy after falling ill. The tournament, which begins on August 28 in Bengaluru, marks the return of the zonal format, and Gill had been named captain of North Zone. However, reports confirm that he is recuperating in Chandigarh under medical supervision after being diagnosed with a viral illness.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has received a medical report from its physio team, which also oversaw Gill’s blood tests to ensure there are no underlying complications. While his condition is not considered severe, the BCCI has opted for a precautionary approach given his critical role in India’s upcoming assignments, including the Asia Cup and the Test series against Bangladesh later this year.
With Gill unavailable, vice-captain Ankit Kumar will lead North Zone. To bolster the batting lineup, Shubham Rohilla has been called up as Gill’s replacement. North Zone will also miss the services of fast bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana for most of the tournament as they prepare for Asia Cup duties, leaving the team to rely on reserve options like Gurnoor Brar and Anuj Thakral.
Gill’s absence is a significant setback considering his current form. He recently dominated the England Test series with 754 runs at an average of 75.40, including a double century and three hundreds. He also had an exceptional IPL season, scoring over 650 runs, reaffirming his status as one of India’s premier batters.
Although Gill will miss the early stages of the Duleep Trophy, there is optimism about his recovery before India’s Asia Cup campaign in early September, where he is expected to take charge of the T20 side as vice-captain. For now, the focus remains on ensuring his full fitness for the international calendar rather than risking a premature return in domestic cricket.
This development adds intrigue to the Duleep Trophy, as North Zone must now adapt quickly to leadership changes while other players get a chance to step up in a high-stakes domestic tournament.
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