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'It will be a bit weird for us to find the right placement for fielders' – Shubman Gill on Eden Park's unique dimensions

India captain Shubman Gill faces a tactical puzzle ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park, where the ground’s compact dimensions and unusual layout demand precise field placements. Gill, who has previously played in New Zealand and is currently the leading run-scorer in ODIs with 895 runs from 11 innings (average 111.87, strike rate 118.7), acknowledged the challenge of adapting to Eden Park’s shorter boundaries—measuring under 60 metres—while its square boundaries stretch wider.

The venue’s unfamiliarity adds complexity, as the team must quickly identify scoring zones without prior experience. Gill also highlighted the added variables of playing under lights for the second innings, with two new balls introducing potential swing and bounce variations by dusk.

His return to New Zealand, where he made his international debut, brings both familiarity and fresh conditions to navigate.

Up nextCricket· 1h ago

What device is Shubman Gill wearing during India vs New Zealand 1st ODI?