Rishabh Pant, India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, is set to make a return for the upcoming second Test against New Zealand in Pune, starting October 24, 2024. Pant sustained a knee injury during the first Test in Bengaluru, which forced him to leave the field on Day 2. Despite receiving treatment, he was unable to continue and had to be carried off.
Injury Update
India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, provided an optimistic update on Pant’s fitness. Ten Doeschate mentioned that Pant is showing signs of recovery and the medical team is hopeful that he will be fit to play in the Pune Test. Pant’s injury occurred while he was trying to collect a delivery during New Zealand’s innings, and he showed severe discomfort immediately after the incident.
Rishabh Pant’s Performance
Despite the injury, Pant displayed his resilience by coming out to bat and scoring a magnificent 99 runs in the first Test. His performance was a highlight of the match, but his inability to keep wickets for a significant part of the game raised concerns about his fitness for the upcoming match.
Rishabh pant in today's batting practice session at Pune stadium 🇮🇳🔥🧿
– People would happily pay money to watch his net practice also 😂#RishabhPant #INDvsNZ #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/AgLnFCRxc2
— Harsh shekhawat (@wordofshekhawat) October 22, 2024
Team’s Confidence
The BCCI medical team is confident that Pant will overcome the injury and be ready for the Pune Test. Ten Doeschate echoed this sentiment, stating that Pant is expected to keep wickets and contribute with the bat in the second Test. The team management is backing Pant’s return, emphasizing his importance to the side.
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