Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Shubman Gill takes the best step forward to improve his red-ball form

Following India’s recent Test slump, the calls for players to focus more on domestic cricket have grown louder. The team's poor performances in the longest format, especially against spin at home and pace in Australia, have led to serious concerns. After losing to New Zealand 0-3 at home and Australia 1-3 on their tour, the team’s struggles have intensified the debate about the importance of domestic cricket in shaping the national side. There has been increasing scrutiny over the fact that several players, particularly the batters, have not been prioritizing domestic cricket to improve their skills in the longer format.

Shubman Gill confirms his availability for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season

As part of the solution to this growing issue, star India batter Shubman Gill has made the decision to play in the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the 24-year-old right-hander has made himself available for Punjab's upcoming fixture against Karnataka, scheduled to begin on January 23. Gill’s involvement in the prestigious domestic competition is seen as a crucial step in not only sharpening his red-ball technique but also setting an example for other players. The decision is being welcomed by cricket experts and fans alike, as it could play a key role in addressing India’s batting woes.

Punjab has been in strong form in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, currently occupying second place in Group C. With six victories out of seven matches, they are only behind Karnataka, who have the same number of wins and games played but lead the group based on net run rate. This impressive performance has put Punjab in a good position to challenge for a top spot as the tournament progresses.

The team's success has been built on consistent performances across all departments, and with Shubman Gill now making himself available for their upcoming match against Karnataka, Punjab will be even stronger. Gill’s return to domestic cricket is expected to provide a boost not only to Punjab's batting lineup but also to the overall competitiveness of the group. His presence could be a game-changer for Punjab, especially in a high-stakes encounter with Karnataka, who are at the top of the group.

“Yes, Shubman Gill is available for Punjab’s Ranji match against Karnataka on January 23,” a source within Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) confirmed to Hindustan Times.

Shubman Gill’s appearance in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy will be his first red-ball domestic game in nearly four years. The 25-year-old last featured in a domestic red-ball match during the 2022 Ranji Trophy, where he played for Punjab in a quarterfinal against Madhya Pradesh in Bengaluru. This was the only time Gill has represented his state in the tournament since making his Test debut for India. Gill’s meteoric rise in international cricket, beginning with his Test debut in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in December 2020, has kept him away from domestic red-ball cricket. Since his debut, his focus has primarily been on representing India across all formats, especially in limited-overs cricket and Tests. Despite his busy international schedule, the young batter's return to the Ranji Trophy is significant. It marks his commitment to playing more domestic cricket to sharpen his skills and maintain match fitness, especially in the longer format.

Following his decision to step down from the Sydney Test against Australia due to a prolonged slump in form, Rohit Sharma took a proactive approach by attending Mumbai's practice sessions. The Indian captain, who had been struggling with the bat, chose to spend time honing his skills and working on his game. While Rohit has communicated his decision to the team management regarding his absence from the Test match, his participation in Mumbai's upcoming Ranji Trophy fixtures remains uncertain.

Rohit's involvement in domestic cricket could be a crucial move, allowing him to regain form and confidence ahead of future international commitments. His return to the domestic fold would also serve as an important statement of commitment to improving his red-ball game. However, as of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding whether he will feature in Mumbai's upcoming Ranji matches. While his decision to attend practice sessions indicates a readiness to work hard, it remains to be seen whether Rohit will take the field in the Ranji Trophy or continue focusing solely on preparing for international duties. His form and fitness will be closely monitored, given his importance to both Mumbai and the Indian team in the longer format.