Key Highlights
- Rishabh Pant suffered a side strain with internal oblique muscle tear during training.
- Pant ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
- KL Rahul remains India’s first-choice wicketkeeper in the ODI setup.
- Dhruv Jurel replaces Pant as the replacement in India’s squad for the series.
What Happened to Rishabh Pant?
Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, faced a significant setback during training on Saturday. While batting in extended nets, he was struck by a delivery from a throwdown specialist and suffered a severe right-sided strain with an internal oblique muscle tear.
Immediate Medical Attention
The incident occurred at the BCA Stadium’s Ground B. Pant’s immediate discomfort was evident as he grimaced on the field. A prompt medical response saw support staff rush to his aid, with head coach Gautam Gambhir present for the treatment. Despite receiving initial attention, Pant walked off the ground and did not resume training.
Medical Diagnosis and Series Impact
A thorough medical assessment later confirmed the seriousness of the injury. “He has been diagnosed with a right-sided strain with internal oblique muscle tear, and thus ruled out of the forthcoming ODI series against New Zealand,” a reliable source told TOI.
Impact on India’s Squad
The sudden exit from the nets left the selectors scrambling to find a replacement. Dhruv Jurel, who has been performing well for Uttar Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, was named as Pant’s replacement for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
Team Readiness for Series Openers
The ODI series is set to begin at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. The second match will take place in Rajkot on January 14, and the final game will be held in Indore on January 18. India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, KL Rahul, will continue to lead the team in Pant’s absence.
Background of Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant last featured in an ODI against Sri Lanka in July 2024. While part of India’s Champions Trophy-winning squad in 2025, he did not play a match. His most recent competitive action came while leading Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored two half-centuries against Services and Railways.
After recovering from a toe fracture sustained during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, Pant had made a significant return to competitive cricket. This injury now marks another major setback for the 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, potentially affecting his preparation for upcoming international matches.
Selection and Performance
The selectors are expected to announce an official replacement soon. With Pant ruled out of the series, the team will look towards Jurel to provide stability behind the stumps. The young wicketkeeper-batter has been in good form for Uttar Pradesh and is likely to step up to fill the gap left by Pant.
The ODI series against a revamped New Zealand side presents an opportunity for Jurel to prove himself at the international level, while KL Rahul will aim to maintain India’s competitive edge as they gear up for these crucial matches.
The absence of Pant is certainly a blow but offers a chance for new talent to shine in the Indian team.
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