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Sports
Shubman Gill says New Zealand pitches mirror 2027 World Cup conditions, giving India early edge
✍️ Yahoo Sports
🗓 07 Nov 2026, 08:56 AM
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India’s opening batsman Shubman Gill noted that the playing conditions in New Zealand closely resemble those expected for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, and that the ongoing ODI series could help the team adapt early.
Shubman Gill, who opened the batting for India in the current one‑day international (ODI) series in New Zealand, said the local conditions are “a lot more similar” to what teams will face at the 2027 Cricket World Cup. He made the remarks ahead of the final matches of the three‑match series, which is being used as a preparation platform for the upcoming global tournament.
Gill highlighted that New Zealand’s pitches offer a balanced mix of pace, bounce and seam movement, traits that match the projected venues for the 2027 World Cup in the United States and West Indies. The climate, with moderate humidity and cooler evenings, also mirrors the expected playing environment.
According to Gill, gaining experience in such conditions now gives India a strategic advantage, allowing players to fine‑tune their techniques and game plans before the World Cup. He added that the series provides a valuable opportunity for the squad to assess its strengths and address any weaknesses under realistic match pressure.
The ODI series, scheduled to conclude later this week, will see India and New Zealand each looking to finish on a high note, while the Indian side hopes to carry forward the insights gained into the World Cup campaign slated for 2027.
Gill highlighted that New Zealand’s pitches offer a balanced mix of pace, bounce and seam movement, traits that match the projected venues for the 2027 World Cup in the United States and West Indies. The climate, with moderate humidity and cooler evenings, also mirrors the expected playing environment.
According to Gill, gaining experience in such conditions now gives India a strategic advantage, allowing players to fine‑tune their techniques and game plans before the World Cup. He added that the series provides a valuable opportunity for the squad to assess its strengths and address any weaknesses under realistic match pressure.
The ODI series, scheduled to conclude later this week, will see India and New Zealand each looking to finish on a high note, while the Indian side hopes to carry forward the insights gained into the World Cup campaign slated for 2027.