Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has opened up about his ongoing recovery from injury, expressing optimism about his fitness and reflecting on the profound life lessons he has gained from multiple comebacks in his cricket career. Pant, who last played an ODI for India against Sri Lanka in July 2024, has been sidelined since January 10 due to a right-sided internal oblique muscle tear, sustained during a practice session in Vadodara.
Injury Details and Recovery Progress
Pant suffered the side strain after being struck above the waist by a ball from a throwdown specialist while training ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand. Despite this setback, he remains positive about his rehabilitation. "My fitness is getting better day by day. I am working hard at the Centre of Excellence and I think I'm going to be out on the field soon," Pant stated in a recent update. He emphasized that his love for cricket and support from those around him have been crucial in keeping him connected to the game during this challenging period.
Lessons from Career Comebacks
Reflecting on his career, Pant highlighted how time away from the field has reshaped his perspective. "Every comeback has taught me something about life. It has taught me more gratitude, how you see things around you, and wanting to be committed to something that really makes you happy," he explained. He admitted that missing top-level competition is the hardest part of being injured, as he deeply misses the joy of playing at the highest level.
Pant also stressed the importance of continuous improvement in his game. "As a cricketer, you always have to keep adding to your game. I need to keep looking to get better in each and every aspect of my overall gameplay," he added, underscoring his dedication to refining his skills even during recovery.
Recent Cricket Involvement and Achievements
Before his injury, Pant was actively involved in a lengthy batting session in Vadodara, focusing on techniques like his forward defence and occasional lap shots. Notably, he was part of the Indian squad that won the Champions Trophy in 2025, although he did not feature in any matches during the tournament. This experience, coupled with his past performances, fuels his desire to return stronger.
Pant's journey underscores the resilience required in professional sports, as he navigates recovery with a renewed outlook on both cricket and life. Fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his return to the field, hoping to see him back in action soon, contributing to India's cricketing successes.
