3 players who could replace Rishabh Pant if he is ruled out of NZ vs IND Tests

Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India’s A first two multi-day matches against New Zealand A.

Unfortunate news came on Monday as Rishabh Pant was ruled out for the first two games of the three-match multi-day series against New Zealand A. Pant has been ruled out of the India A squad after sustaining a left-side strain during the Irani Cup. Currently, his availability for the third fixture also remains uncertain.

Kumar Kushagra has been named as his replacement for the initial two matches of the multi-day series. Pant will continue to remain under the supervision of a designated medical team while aiming to return to action soon.

However, with uncertainty over Pant’s recovery in time, the BCCI would also consider other options to replace him for India‘s tour of New Zealand, where the Shubman Gill-led side will play two Test matches against the Black Caps. Thus, without any further ado, let’s take a look at the 3 players who could replace Rishabh Pant if he is ruled out of the IND vs NZ Tests.

3 Players who could replace Rishabh Pant in India squad for New Zealand Tests if he is ruled out

3. Abishek Porel

Abishek Porel could potentially be called up for the Indian team if he continues scoring big runs. The Bengal wicketkeeper-batter scored an unbeaten century for his side in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Group C match against Delhi.

Porel has been backed by the Delhi Capitals in the last few IPL seasons; thus, he also has some experience facing the best bowlers in the world. However, the chance of him getting the opportunity remains slim.

2. Kumar Kushagra

Kumar Kushagra has replaced Rishabh Pant for India A in the first two games, and if he performs well, he might also get an opportunity to represent the Men in Blue in the upcoming Test series. Kushagra has played 38 first-class matches, in which he has scored 2,507 runs in 61 innings.

His highest score has been 266, while he has also completed 66 catches and 15 stumpings. Kushagra also played in the India A vs. Australia A series, where he scored a century in the first innings of the first match but later failed to produce any other commendable run-scoring display.

1. Ishan Kishan

Ishan Kishan has only played two Test matches for India, both in 2023 during team’s tour of the West Indies. Over the last few years, Kishan has solidified his place in the India team as a fearless and flexible batter and wicketkeeper who can come in clutch and save the day for the team.

However, the 28-year-old could also be a great alternative in Test cricket if the BCCI decides to give him a chance in the upcoming series because he will likely be playing in the T20Is and the ODIs. He also has performed well in red-ball cricket of late, especially in Duleep Trophy 2026, where he hit a double century.

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