Speaking to reporters on the eve of the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland on Tuesday, India captain Shubman Gill hailed Hardik Pandya as an irreplaceable asset, emphasising his rare ability to deliver impact with both bat and ball across all phases of the game.

Expressing disappointment over Pandya's long absence since IPL 2026, Gill revealed that management remains in constant touch with the all-rounder, hoping he recovers swiftly through domestic cricket to make a national comeback.