NEW DELHI: Indian skipper Shubman Gill had a sigh of relief as he returned to form after an injury break and a quiet run in the T20I format.

The comeback came during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara, where Gill led his first home outing as India’s captain.

Opening the batting, Gill started carefully and focused on getting his eye in. A few crisp strokes stood out, along with some controlled aggression in patches, showing intent without taking unnecessary risks.

Gill went on to score a solid 56 runs from 71 deliveries, an innings that included three fours and two sixes

The innings also extended Gill’s impressive record against New Zealand Fifth 50-plus scores in 13 ODI innings against New Zealand.

India did suffer an early blow in the chase as Rohit Sharma departed for 26. However, Gill then stitched together a crucial partnership with Virat Kohli that shifted the momentum firmly in India’s favour. The duo added 118 runs for the second wicket in 107 deliveries, taking India well ahead in the contest.

Kohli once again showed his class with a fluent half-century, playing with assurance and control. Gill matched him at the other end, rotating strike smartly and picking his moments to attack. Their partnership laid a strong foundation and ensured India stayed in complete control of the chase.