Ace Indian batter Shubman Gill is set to be a key figure in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh. However, the senior selection committee has decided to rest Gill, alongside other key Test players, from the three-match T20I series as part of their workload management strategy. This decision is aimed at ensuring that India's top players remain fresh and injury-free for the busy Test schedule ahead.

Shubman Gill rested for Bangladesh T20I series

Shubman Gill, who has recently cemented his position as India's number three in the Test lineup, will be rested during the Bangladesh T20I series. The three T20I matches are scheduled for October 7, 10, and 13 in Gwalior, Delhi, and Hyderabad, respectively. With a short turnaround between the T20I series and India's first Test against New Zealand, which starts on October 16, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has chosen to prioritize player workload management. A BCCI source stated, “It is important to give Gill a break before the rigorous Test season, which includes 10 Tests, including series against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia.”

It has been confirmed that most of the players who are part of the Test setup, including pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, will also be rested from the T20I series. This move comes in light of the team's focus on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 cycle, with the goal of reaching the final at Lord's in June 2025.

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Ishan Kishan set for a return after long absence

As Rishabh Pant continues to be an integral part of India's red-ball setup, his involvement in the shorter formats remains uncertain. In Pant's potential absence, Ishan Kishan is expected to make a comeback to international cricket. Kishan, who last represented India in November, could rejoin the squad for the Bangladesh T20Is, marking his return after nearly nine months away from the international scene.

The T20I series will provide Kishan with a crucial opportunity to showcase his skills, as he looks to regain his spot in the Indian team amidst tough competition. Meanwhile, India’s main focus remains on preparing their key players for the crucial Test series ahead.

With 10 Tests lined up in the current season, including the highly anticipated tours of Australia, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, India is aiming to manage player workload carefully to stay on track for their World Test Championship aspirations.