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Indian Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has arrived early in New Zealand to begin his preparations for the important multi-format series. The images went viral quickly on social media showing the stylish
right-hander already in the nets, focused and working hard under clear skies. The early preparation shows the dedication that has become a hallmark of Gill’s leadership since he took over the Test captaincy. Gill is prioritising red-ball preparation and with the two-Test series against New Zealand starting next month. The first Test will be played on November 19 in Wellington, followed by the second Test in Christchurch.
THE DEDICATION OF SHUBMAN GILL 🔥
– Indian ODI & Test Captain has arrived early in New Zealand for the preparation for important series. https://t.co/JQaLSf3wUo
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 26, 2026
He has given himself extra time to adapt to the conditions. Reports earlier suggested that he even arranged personal net bowlers at his own expense to ensure high-quality practice sessions, a rare step that reflects how seriously he is taking this assignment. The gap between the white-ball games and the Tests is tight, so the early arrival allows him to switch focus properly. As captain, Gill carries the dual responsibility of leading the side and scoring runs at the top. The coming weeks will reveal how that extra preparation translates into performances on New Zealand pitches, but the intent is already evident.
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Shubman Gill’s Red-Ball form has been excellent in recent years
Indian captain Shubman Gill’ red-ball form over the last few years has been excellent. In 2024, Gill scored 866 runs in 12 Tests at an average of 43.30, with three centuries. He went a step further in 2025 after he was named Test captain. During the five-match series in England, he produced a remarkable 754 runs at an average of over 75, including four hundreds. The standout performance was at Edgbaston, where he scored 269 and 161 in the same match. It was a monumental contribution that announced his arrival as a top-class Test batsman and leader.
Across 2025 he finished with 983 Test runs at 65.53, five centuries, and a transformed average compared to his pre-captaincy years. In 2026 so far, opportunities have been limited in the red ball and there have been some low scores in a couple of Tests, but the foundation built in England remains strong. Gill has spoken about wanting to set the right example, and this early preparation in New Zealand fits that approach. Conditions there are expected to offer seam movement and variable bounce, testing technique and patience. He has shown improvement in all of these areas where his recent form suggests he is better equipped than before.
