Shubman Gill’s Vijay Hazare Trophy Schedule: How Many Matches Will He Play?

Shubman Gill will feature in only two group-stage matches for Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 as he looks to fine-tune his game ahead of India’s home ODI series against New Zealand.

Gill is set to play Punjab’s fifth and sixth group matches, against Sikkim on January 3 and Goa on January 6, with both games scheduled in Jaipur. He has skipped the opening matches of the tournament so far.

This short domestic stint is mainly to regain white-ball rhythm after recovering from a neck injury and a subsequent setback. Gill has been training at the PCA Stadium in Mohali and feels ready for match action again.

Punjab have managed one win from their first two matches, and Gill’s presence will be a boost, even if it is only for a brief window. His availability beyond these two games remains uncertain due to national team commitments.

A source told Sportstar, “He will join the team in Jaipur around January 1 for those two games. While he is interested in playing the final group league fixture against Mumbai as well, it will all depend on the BCCI’s scheduling for the camps.”

Gill’s limited participation follows a familiar pattern. Senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also made short domestic appearances in recent times before heading into international series.

Despite being left out of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad, Gill’s standing in Indian cricket remains strong. He continues to be India’s captain in Tests and ODIs and is seen as a long-term leader heading towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.

With his focus now firmly on the 50-over format, these Vijay Hazare matches are important for Gill to get back into competitive rhythm before leading India against New Zealand.

Punjab fans will hope he makes his time count, even if it is just two games in the middle of a packed international calendar.