In a significant setback for Indian cricket, star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The unfortunate development occurred just a day before the series opener in Vadodara, casting a shadow over India's preparations.
How the Injury Occurred
The incident took place during an optional practice session at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on Saturday, January 10. According to a report by Cricbuzz, Pant was in the middle of a lengthy and productive batting stint in the nets when disaster struck. A delivery from a throwdown specialist struck him just above the waist on his right side.
The impact was severe enough that Pant was seen writhing in pain on the ground. The scene prompted immediate attention from the team's medical staff, including the physio and doctor, with head coach Gautam Gambhir also rushing to his aid. While no scans were conducted in Vadodara, the injury was deemed serious enough to sideline him completely from the series.
Immediate Aftermath and Recovery Plan
Pant is expected to leave the Indian team camp on Sunday morning, January 11. His likely destination is the BCCI Centre of Excellence, where he will undergo further assessment and begin his recovery process. This latest mishap adds to a growing list of fitness challenges that have plagued the dynamic player in recent years.
It is important to note that, as of now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not released an official statement regarding Pant's condition or his exclusion from the squad. The information is based on the initial media report.
Impact on Team India's ODI Setup
Pant's absence deals a substantial blow to the Indian team's balance and firepower in the middle order. In the current ODI setup, KL Rahul is the primary wicketkeeper. Pant was serving as the crucial backup stumper and an explosive batting option under the captaincy of Shubman Gill for this series.
The national selectors are now tasked with naming a replacement promptly. Ishan Kishan has emerged as a strong contender to fill the void, given that he is already the preferred wicketkeeper for the subsequent T20I series and has been in fine touch in domestic cricket.
A History of Persistent Injury Troubles
This incident is another chapter in Pant's difficult battle with injuries. His career faced its biggest threat from a horrific car accident in December 2022, which led to a prolonged absence from all cricket, including the IPL.
More recently, he has been hampered by a finger injury during the tour of England last summer and a toe fracture that affected his participation in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. These repeated setbacks have disrupted his rhythm and consistency, even after making commendable comebacks in limited-overs cricket.
The practice session in Vadodara was attended by several other key players, including Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, and captain Shubman Gill, who also addressed the media ahead of the first match. The series will now proceed without Pant, with matches scheduled in Rajkot on January 14 and Indore on January 18.
