Shubman Gill to make his debut in the 4th ODI vs New Zealand?

What's the Story?

If the recent indications are to be believed, a talented youngster, Shubman Gill could make his debut in the 4th ODI of the ongoing ODI series against the Kiwis.

According to BCCI press release, Virat Kohli has been rested for the last two ODIs against the Kiwis and Rohit Sharma, his deputy will take charge in his absence. What is also notable is that the BCCI has thus far refrained from naming any replacements.

BCCI Press Release: http://www.bcci.tv/col-c-k-nayudu-trophy-2018-19/news/2019/press-releases/17961/virat-kohli-to-be-rested-for-last-2-odis-t20i-series-against-new-zealand

In case you didn’t know...

Shubman Gill along with Vijay Shankar was recently drafted into the Indian team after the suspension of KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya.

In the absence of KL Rahul, there are not many top order batsmen on the bench in the current Indian squad. Also, Shubman Gill is considered a vastly talented player. He was part of the U-19 WC squad that lifted the trophy in early 2018. Notably, he batted at no.3 position in that tournament.

The heart of the matter

The Indian captain Virat Kohli is one of the few players in the world cricket who plays all the three formats. With a view of keeping him fresh ahead of the upcoming World Cup, the BCCI plans to manage his workload. The Indian team has arrived in NZ after a grueling Australian tour amidst tough conditions where India emerged as winners. Immediately after the series, it was announced that Jasprit Bumrah will be rested. And it seems now the BCCI has decided to rest the Indian Captain for the last two games ODI games and T20s.

Post the controversies that arose after the Koffee with Karan episode, Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul were suspended. Gill and Shankar were drafted in as like for like replacements for the duo. With the BCCI not opting to name any replacement, it is most probable that Shubman Gill would make his debut in Indian colors.

What’s Next?

India are currently leading the five-match series 1-0 with four left to play. India would be hoping that they win the series before their talismanic captain is rested.