Rishabh Pant Injury: Pant Injured During Net Practice, Ruled Out of New Zealand Series

Indian cricket team's dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, has suffered a significant setback during a net practice session in Vadodara. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, saw Pant sustain. A painful blow to his right side, specifically his rib area. He was batting against a throwdown specialist, a routine part of his preparation for the upcoming series, when the unfortunate event took place. This injury not only casts a shadow over his immediate. Participation but also raises concerns about his fitness going forward.

The Moment of Impact and Immediate Aftermath

During the intense net session, a delivery from the throwdown. Specialist struck Rishabh Pant on the right side of his abdomen. The impact was severe enough to cause him to cry out in pain and immediately fall to the ground. The sight of Pant writhing in discomfort was alarming for everyone present at the Kotambi Stadium. The team's support staff and medical personnel swiftly rushed to his aid, carefully assisting him off the field to assess the extent of the injury. Such incidents are always a cause for concern, especially for a key player on the eve of an important international series.

Diagnosis Confirmed: Rib Strain and Series Exclusion

According to news agency IANS, a thorough examination by the team doctors confirmed that Rishabh Pant has sustained an injury to his right rib, specifically a strain. Rib strains can be particularly debilitating for athletes, affecting movements crucial for both batting and wicketkeeping. Following this diagnosis, media reports indicate that Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out of the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. This is a considerable blow for Team India, as Pant is a vital component. Of their middle order and his absence will undoubtedly impact the team's balance and strategy.

Potential Replacements and Team Strategy

With Rishabh Pant sidelined, the team management now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement for the New Zealand ODI series. Media reports suggest that Dhruv Jurel or Ishan Kishan could be given the opportunity to step into Pant's shoes. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will need to make a crucial decision regarding who will fill this significant void. The team will also have to adjust its game plan to compensate for Pant's aggressive batting. Style and his presence behind the stumps, ensuring they maintain a strong and competitive playing XI.

Vadodara's Historic Venue and Upcoming Fixtures

The unfortunate incident occurred at Vadodara's Kotambi Stadium, which is hosting its first-ever men's international match. While this marks a historic occasion for the venue, Pant's injury has cast a somber note over the proceedings. The ODI series against New Zealand is scheduled with the second match on January 14 in Rajkot and the third match on January 18 in Indore. Team India will now have to navigate these crucial encounters without the services of Rishabh Pant, presenting a significant challenge for the squad.

Pant's Recent ODI Form and Selection Context

Rishabh Pant has been a part of India's ODI squad for the past two years, although his last appearance in the 50-over format was in August 2024 during the tour of Sri Lanka. Prior to the New Zealand ODI series, there had been considerable speculation about Pant being dropped from the team. However, the selection committee, under the leadership of Ajit Agarkar, ultimately decided to retain him in the squad, indicating their continued faith in his abilities, while this latest injury, however, presents another hurdle in his journey to cement his place in the ODI setup.

This isn't the first instance where Rishabh Pant has been sidelined due to injury. In 2025, he was also forced out of the team due to a previous injury. In July 2025, Pant sustained a fracture in his right toe on the first day of the fourth Test against England in Manchester, while doctors had advised him at least six weeks of rest for that injury. Consequently, Rishabh Pant was also ruled out of the Asia Cup 2025, which was played in September, and wasn't selected for the two Tests against West Indies in October. These recurring injury setbacks have been a cause for concern in his career, and fans will be hoping for a swift and complete recovery from this latest incident.