Shubman Gill fitness test ahead of Asia Cup preparations is the biggest talking point for Indian cricket fans right now. The India Test captain and T20I vice-captain has reached the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to undergo the mandatory assessment before joining the squad for the Asia Cup.
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Gill Arrives in Bengaluru for Fitness Assessment
Gill reached Bengaluru on Friday (August 29) evening. While the exact date of his fitness test has not been confirmed, sources suggest it will take place within the next few days at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) facility.
If cleared, Gill is expected to fly directly to the UAE from Bengaluru to join the Indian team ahead of the tournament.
Why the Fitness Test Is Crucial for Shubman Gill
Every Asia Cup-bound player is required to clear the CoE’s fitness standards before traveling. For Gill, this assessment is especially important because:
- He was recently unwell and had been resting in Chandigarh, missing the Duleep Trophy.
- After recovering, he resumed light training in his hometown before traveling for the official test.
- The Asia Cup is a key tournament ahead of the T20 World Cup 2025, and Gill’s form and availability are vital for India’s batting lineup.
Indian Team’s Asia Cup Preparations
Unlike previous tournaments, the Indian team will not travel together from one city. Instead, players will fly from their individual bases and regroup in Dubai by September 4.
- First net session: Scheduled for September 5 at the ICC Academy, Dubai, where India has trained before, including during their victorious Champions Trophy campaign earlier this year.
- Focus: With India just completing a Test series in England, the team is short on T20 practice. The Asia Cup serves as a vital warm-up before the T20 World Cup.
Other Teams’ Preparations
While India’s focus has been split between formats, other Asia Cup contenders are already in action:
- Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE – Currently competing in a tri-series in Sharjah.
- Sri Lanka – Playing a bilateral series in Zimbabwe (two ODIs and three T20Is).
- Bangladesh – Fresh from a T20I series against Pakistan.
- Oman and Hong Kong – Already in the UAE, playing practice matches.
Clearly, India will enter the tournament with less T20 match practice compared to their rivals, making Shubman Gill’s fitness test ahead of Asia Cup even more critical.
Tournament Schedule – Asia Cup 2025
- Asia Cup start date: September 9
- India’s first match: September 10 vs UAE
- Venue: Matches will be played across multiple venues in the UAE.
India’s schedule means they will have less than a week of preparation together as a squad before the opening clash.
FAQs – Shubman Gill Fitness Test Ahead of Asia Cup
1. Why is Shubman Gill undergoing a fitness test?
Gill missed the Duleep Trophy due to illness. As per BCCI regulations, all Asia Cup players must clear a mandatory fitness test at the NCA CoE.
2. Where is Shubman Gill’s fitness test taking place?
At the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.
3. Will Gill fly directly to the UAE for the Asia Cup?
Yes, if he clears the test, he is expected to fly straight from Bengaluru to join the squad in Dubai.
4. When does India’s Asia Cup campaign begin?
India plays their first match on September 10 against UAE.
5. Why is Gill important for India’s Asia Cup campaign?
As India’s Test captain and T20I vice-captain, Gill plays a key role at the top of the order. His fitness ensures India’s batting depth remains strong.
Final Thoughts
The Shubman Gill fitness test ahead of Asia Cup is more than just a routine check—it’s a crucial milestone for India’s preparations. With limited time to regroup as a squad, every player’s readiness will be vital. Gill’s availability will boost India’s batting strength as they begin their campaign against UAE on September 10.
As fans eagerly await updates from the NCA in Bengaluru, all eyes are on whether Shubman Gill will be fully fit and firing for the Asia Cup.