Vadodara: Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of ODI Series Against New Zealand Due to Injury
India’s wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11. The announcement follows an abdominal injury sustained during practice. The 28-year-old felt discomfort on the right side of his abdomen while batting in the nets, leading to immediate medical attention. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to provide a detailed update on Pant’s condition ahead of the first ODI or after the toss at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
During a practice session prior to his withdrawal, Pant experienced significant discomfort after being struck by the ball near his waist. Reports indicate that he dropped to his knees before being escorted off the field.
Potential Replacement for Pant in the ODI Setup
Pant’s recent selection had faced considerable scrutiny, as his statistics in white-ball cricket had not mirrored his previous success. Despite this, team management had appointed him as the backup wicket-keeper to KL Rahul. With Pant’s absence, Ishan Kishan is likely to receive a call-up to the squad.
Kishan last played an ODI against Afghanistan during the ODI World Cup 2023, stepping in when Shubman Gill was injured. Although he had been out of the team’s immediate plans recently, he was re-included in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026.
While Kishan has demonstrated his abilities as a top-order batsman, including scoring a double century in ODIs, he has adapted his game to bat at number six during the recently concluded Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kishan is keen to compete for Rahul’s position in the team, and this opportunity may provide him with the platform to showcase his capabilities in Pant’s absence.
For Pant, returning to the ODI setup may be a lengthy process, especially if Kishan impresses the team management during this series.
