India’s vice-captain, Shubman Gill, is set to be rested for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, beginning on October 7, as part of the BCCI’s workload management strategy. Gill, who plays a crucial role as India’s No. 3 in Test matches, forms a key part of the team’s top order alongside Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. He is expected to participate in all 10 Tests scheduled for the season.

In addition to Gill, several other key players are being rested in preparation for the three-Test series against New Zealand. India’s international season kicks off with a two-Test series against Bangladesh, with the first match taking place in Chennai on September 19, followed by the second match in Kanpur on September 27.

A BCCI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed Gill’s absence from the T20I series, stating, “Yes, Shubman will be rested for the Bangladesh T20I series. The matches are scheduled for October 7 (Gwalior), October 10 (Delhi), and October 13 (Hyderabad), while the first Test against New Zealand begins on October 16. It’s important to provide Gill with a break, given the short turnaround of just three days.”

Gill, who has played 21 T20Is, boasts a century, three half-centuries, and a strike rate nearing 140. He recently captained India to a 4-1 series win against Zimbabwe in a five-match series held in Harare.

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This season, T20Is are a lower priority for India, with a strong focus on securing points in the World Test Championship, particularly with the five-match series against Australia being a top priority. Additionally, ODIs are significant due to the upcoming Champions Trophy in February-March. Most of the Test squad is unlikely to feature in the T20Is against Bangladesh.

Notably, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja have already retired from T20I cricket, while fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are also set to be rested under the workload management policy. The participation of Rishabh Pant remains uncertain, as selectors are mindful of managing his workload for the longer formats. If Pant is rested, there’s a chance Ishan Kishan could be recalled, following a lengthy absence from international cricket this year.

(With inputs from PTI)