NZ vs IND: Rishabh Pant likely to get fit for New Zealand Tests; final fitness test on November 12
(Courtesy : BCCI)
Rishabh Pant suffered a side strain during the Irani Cup match against J&K.
A five-match ODI series is underway between New Zealand and India. India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead. After ODIs, both teams will clash in a two-match Test series, starting on November 19 in Wellington.
However, ahead of the Test series, India have received a massive boost. Rishabh Pant has shown positive signs of recovery and is close to regaining full fitness. The 29-year-old has been out of action for the last 4-5 weeks after suffering a side strain during the Irani Cup.
He is currently at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, undergoing his rehab. Rishabh will participate in two-day simulation drills at the CoE on November 12. According to a Cricbuzz report, Pant is likely to receive the green light to play in the upcoming Test series in New Zealand.
As reported, the 29-year-old has looked good and has also taken part in wicketkeeping drills and batting sessions at the facility. Some pictures are going viral on social media, in which he looks good during a net session.
Pant is likely to reach New Zealand ahead of the 1st Test – Reports
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The first Test will begin on November 19, Thursday, at Basin Reserve in Wellington. As reported, the 29-year-old is likely to reach New Zealand before the 1st Test. Pant was part of India A’s initial squad for unofficial Tests in New Zealand.
However, he did not play in any match due to fitness concerns. He didn’t receive CoE’s permission to participate.
Pant last played for India in a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in August. He scored a fluent 63 off 89 balls in the first innings of the second Test in Colombo.
Since then, he has only played one competitive game and has been out of action. Reportedly, Pant is likely to get clearance in the coming days and will join the Indian side.
The 29-year-old is a regular face in India’s Test side, and his presence will strengthen the batting lineup in New Zealand’s tough conditions. India need to win the Test series to stay alive in the WTC 2025-27 final race.
When did Rishabh Pant last play for India?
Rishabh Pant’s last international game was the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August.
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