Shubman Gill Confirms India's Batting Order For New Zealand ODIs: "A Bit Flexible"

Shubman Gill revealed the team's batting plans for the upcoming five-match ODI series vs New Zealand.© AFP

India captain Shubman Gill on Tuesday revealed the team's batting plans for the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins in Auckland on November 4. Gill will lead the side in the first three ODIs before being released from the squad to prepare for the two-Test series later this month. Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer will take over for the final two ODIs in Mount Maunganui. Speaking ahead of the series opener in Auckland, Gill confirmed India's top four will comprise himself, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Iyer.

However, he added that India will adopt a flexible approach in the middle order, with KL Rahul and Axar Patel, the only left-hander in the top six, sharing responsibilities depending on the match situation.

"We will have floating approach for no.5 and no.6. Our top four is set, all right-handers. So if lefty is needed, Axar bhai goes and depending on match situation even KL bhai can go. So, a bit flexible," Gill said during a pre-match press conference.

Gill also dismissed concerns over the neck discomfort that has troubled him in the past. The India captain said he has experienced no discomfort in the lead-up to the series and has completed his preparations without any issues.

"No issue... I batted for close to one and a half hours and did my fielding without any trouble too. No issue at all," he added.

New Zealand has not been a particularly happy hunting ground for Gill, with the India captain scoring just 124 runs in five previous ODI appearances in the country.

However, he has left no stone unturned in his preparations, reportedly paying for the accommodation of four to five net bowlers out of his own pocket to ensure quality practice ahead of the series.

Gill arrived in Auckland before the third T20I last month and has been putting in the hard yards ever since in a bid to hit peak form ahead of a busy international schedule.

Featured Video Of The Day

Spain Vs Argentina | Dani Olmo On WC Triumph: 'Wanted To Set An Example For The Next Generation'