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Auckland, November 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India captain Shubman Gill has confirmed that Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and he himself will form the team's top four in the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, while the middle order will have room for tactical adjustments.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday's series opener in Auckland, Gill said the top four would comprise right-handed batters, with left-handers Axar Patel and KL Rahul available to move up the order depending on match requirements.
“Our top four is set, all right-handers. So if a left-hander is needed, Axar bhai goes and depending on the match situation even KL bhai can go. So, a bit flexible,” Gill said.
He explained that India would follow a floating approach for the No. 5 and no. 6 positions, allowing the team to respond to different situations during the innings.
Gill also expressed hope that all-rounder Hardik Pandya would return to the national side soon, but said he would need to play domestic cricket before making his comeback. Pandya has not played since the Indian Premier League.
Describing Pandya as a rare all-round talent, Gill highlighted his ability to bowl with both the new and old ball, adding that his return would strengthen India's options at No. 7 and no. 8.
The India captain, who will lead the side in the first three ODIs before being released to prepare for the subsequent two-Test series, also dismissed concerns about his own neck injury.
Gill said he had batted for nearly one-and-a-half hours and completed his fielding without discomfort.
He had suffered a neck injury during the Kolkata Test against South Africa in November 2025 and was taken to hospital for examination before being discharged the following day.