Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja Set for Comeback Battles

After India’s 1-2 loss to New Zealand in the ODI series, captain Shubman Gill and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have come under intense scrutiny. Gill faced criticism for his dismissal in the third ODI at Indore, while Jadeja continues to struggle with poor form with both bat and ball.

Both players, who are not part of India’s T20 squad—Gill being left out and Jadeja retired from T20Is—now have an opportunity to regain form in the domestic circuit. Reports suggest that Gill is likely to represent Punjab, while Jadeja will turn out for Saurashtra in the upcoming Ranji Trophy match in Rajkot starting January 22. If confirmed, this head-to-head will be seen as a positive sign for Indian cricket.

Final Decisions on Participation Soon
According to Cricbuzz, the final call on Jadeja and Gill playing in the Ranji Trophy will be made by Monday evening. After India’s tour to Indore for the last ODI, both players will have to return to Rajkot for the Group-B clash. Their participation could mark a critical step in regaining form ahead of international commitments.

Gill Yet to Play in Ranji This Season
India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has not played a single Ranji Trophy match this season. During the first half of the tournament, he was either engaged in international fixtures or recovering from a neck injury. If he plays against Saurashtra, it will be his first Ranji appearance of the season. He had previously represented Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy but failed to make a significant score. His last Ranji appearance for Punjab was last season against Karnataka.

Jadeja Looking to Bounce Back
Ravindra Jadeja has played only one Ranji match this season, representing Saurashtra against Madhya Pradesh. His form in international cricket has been poor, particularly in ODIs, where he has struggled with both bat and ball. Over the past two years, Jadeja has taken only 12 wickets in 13 ODIs at an expensive average of 45.16. Compared to fellow spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, who take wickets every 34-35 balls, Jadeja has claimed one every 55 balls.

Punjab and Saurashtra’s Struggles This Season
Both Punjab and Saurashtra have had disappointing Ranji seasons. Saurashtra has managed just one win in five matches, drawing four, and is placed fourth in Group B behind Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Punjab has fared even worse, with one win, one loss, and three draws, leaving them sixth in the group. The upcoming fixture will be the last league match for both teams this season.