Shubman Gill turns up the heat in training ahead of New Zealand ODI series

Shubman Gill has stepped up his preparations for India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Gill will lead India in the first three ODIs from November 4 as the team looks to build momentum ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.Shubman Gill has started training in New Zealand. Courtesy: PTINew Delhi,Oct 26, 2026 19:26 ISTShubman Gill is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations for India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. The Indian captain is set to lead the side in the first three matches of the five-match contest, which begins in Auckland on November 4. India will look to make a strong start to the tour as they build towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.In a bid to prepare for the challenging conditions in New Zealand, Gill has funded four to five net bowlers to accompany him on the tour and help him fine-tune his game. The arrangement is aimed primarily at his red-ball preparations ahead of the two-Test series later in November.GILL EYES STRONG SHOW IN NEW ZEALANDThe 26-year-old has placed a premium on preparation ahead of the demanding international assignment. He also featured in a Ranji Trophy match for Punjab against Chhattisgarh before travelling to New Zealand, giving him an opportunity to gain valuable match practice. The additional preparation could help him adapt to conditions that often pose a challenge for visiting batters.Gill will be keen to make an impact in the ODI series after a mixed outing against New Zealand earlier in 2026. During the three-match series in India in January, he scored 135 runs across three innings at an average of 45. His campaign included consecutive half-centuries of 56 in the first two ODIs, before he managed 23 in the series decider. India eventually lost the series 2-1, with New Zealand securing their first-ever ODI series victory on Indian soil. Gill will now look to produce more substantial contributions as he leads India in the opening three matches of the upcoming contest.The five ODIs are scheduled to take place between November 4 and 15, with matches in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui. Gill will hand over the captaincy to Shreyas Iyer for the final two matches before turning his attention to the Test series, which begins on November 19. With senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also part of the ODI squad, Gill will have an experienced core around him as India look to begin the tour on a positive note.- Ends