Short answer: Shubman Gill is not playing Punjab's opening match of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27, against Assam in New Chandigarh, which began on 11 October 2026. No official reason has been given. Reports say he could return for Punjab's next match, against Chhattisgarh from 18 October.
Why Is Shubman Gill Not Playing the Ranji Trophy Opener?
According to PTI, Punjab have not released an official explanation for Gill's absence. The Free Press Journal also reports there has been no official update, and suggests his availability may depend on his plans before India's next international assignment. That is a reading of his schedule, not a confirmed reason, so treat it as such.
There is no report of an injury. Gill's last match was the 3rd ODI against West Indies in New Chandigarh on 3 October, where he scored 1. In the series he made 334 runs in three innings, including 110 and 223*.
Who Is Captaining Punjab?
Uday Saharan, the former India Under-19 captain, leads Punjab against Assam.
Gill's absence stands out because several India players are turning out in the first round, including KL Rahul (Karnataka), Ravindra Jadeja (Saurashtra) and Akash Deep (Bengal).
Will Gill Play Against Chhattisgarh?
Possibly, but it is not confirmed. Punjab's next three Ranji matches are:
| Dates (2026) | Match |
|---|---|
| 11 - 14 Oct | Punjab vs Assam (Gill not playing) |
| 18 - 21 Oct | Punjab vs Chhattisgarh (Gill could return) |
| 26 - 29 Oct | Punjab vs Hyderabad |
A match against Chhattisgarh would give him a red-ball game about two weeks before India's ODIs in New Zealand and a month before the Tests there. We will update this page when Punjab name their team for that match.
Shubman Gill's Next Match for India
Gill is not in India's T20I squad for the five T20Is in New Zealand (22 to 31 October), which Shreyas Iyer captains. His next India match is the 1st ODI against New Zealand on 4 November 2026, as captain, followed by two Tests from 19 November.
For every fixture with IST start times, see the full schedule. For why he isn't in the T20I side, read why Gill isn't playing T20Is.
*theshubmangill.com is an independent fan site, not affiliated with Shubman Gill, the BCCI or the Punjab Cricket Association.*