India vs New Zealand: Rishabh Pant injury scare ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Injured Rishabh Pant was unable to take the field on Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test match between India and New Zealand. As play commenced on Friday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) assessed the situation and provided an update regarding Pant's condition. The board confirmed that their medical team is closely monitoring the wicketkeeper-batter's recovery. Pant's absence has raised concerns among fans and teammates alike, as he is a key player for the Indian squad. His injury comes at a critical time in the series, and the team is keen to ensure he receives the appropriate care to facilitate a swift return to action. The BCCI's proactive approach in keeping tabs on Pant's health reflects their commitment to player welfare.

As the Test match unfolds, the Indian team will need to adapt to the challenges posed by the absence of one of their star performers. The situation is being handled with caution, and updates are expected as the medical team continues to evaluate Pant’s progress. The cricketing community is hopeful for a positive outcome, as Pant's skills and contributions are invaluable to the team's success. Fans will be eagerly awaiting news on his recovery, hoping to see him back on the field in the near future.

Rishabh Pant to miss Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25?

The situation regarding Rishabh Pant's injury took a serious turn after he was carried off the field due to a left knee injury on Day 2 of the Test match against New Zealand on Thursday, October 17. The incident occurred during New Zealand’s innings when Pant appeared to injure his left knee while attempting to collect a delivery in the 37th over. Pant was visibly in discomfort, leading India’s physios to rush onto the field to assess his condition. Despite their immediate efforts, it became clear that he could not continue, and he was ultimately carried off the field. This unfortunate turn of events resulted in Pant being replaced by substitute wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, leaving the Indian team to adjust to his absence.

The loss of Pant, a crucial player for the team, has raised concerns among fans and teammates as they navigate the remainder of the match. The medical team is now closely monitoring his recovery, and updates on his condition are eagerly anticipated. The cricketing community remains hopeful that Pant will make a swift recovery and return to action soon, as his skills are vital to India’s success in upcoming matches.

UPDATE: Mr Rishabh Pant will not keep wickets on Day 3.

The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress.

Follow the match - https://t.co/FS97Llv5uq#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 18, 2024

At the end of Day 2's play, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed concerns regarding Rishabh Pant's injury. He noted that Pant had been hit in the area where he previously underwent surgery, resulting in some tenderness in his muscles. This revelation heightened worries about Pant's condition, especially given his recent return to competitive cricket.

Pant had just completed a 14-month rehabilitation process following severe injuries from a car accident in 2022. His recovery from a left knee injury, which required surgery, had been closely monitored and eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike. This latest setback is particularly disheartening for the Indian camp, as they were hopeful for his continued contributions to the team.

"Unfortunately, the knee. The ball went and hit straight on his knee cap, the leg which he had surgery on. So, he has got a little bit of swelling on it. The muscles are bit tender at this point of time. It's a precautionary measure," Indian captain Rohit Sharma stated during the post-match press conference.

With a packed cricketing calendar ahead, including crucial series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, Rishabh Pant's injury could create significant challenges for India’s plans. Captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir are likely feeling the pressure, as Pant plays a vital role in the team both as a wicketkeeper and as an aggressive middle-order batter.

His absence has left a notable gap in India’s lineup, especially at a time when the team is already facing scrutiny following a disappointing batting performance. The injury intensifies the concerns surrounding the squad as they struggle to regain their form in the ongoing Test match. As India prepares for a demanding series ahead, the management will need to reassess their strategies without Pant's contributions. The situation adds to a growing list of challenges for the team, which will need to rally together to overcome this setback.