CricBengal.com | Sports Desk
India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant’s participation in the upcoming New Zealand tour has become uncertain after he failed to meet the required fitness standards in a recent assessment. His availability for the India A team’s third unofficial Test and the senior team’s Test series will depend on his recovery and the medical team’s assessment.
Pant has been at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru since October 23. Board medical staff conducted his fitness test on Sunday, but he did not pass the assessment, according to a report by Anandabazar Patrika.
Pant Continues His Recovery
Pant sustained a muscle strain during the Irani Cup final. His fitness has yet to reach the expected level following the injury.
The wicketkeeper-batter has resumed training at the Centre of Excellence. He has been working on both batting and wicketkeeping drills as he attempts to return to full fitness.
However, his participation in competitive cricket will depend on whether the medical staff are satisfied with his physical condition.
Another Fitness Test Scheduled for Tuesday
According to the report, Pant is scheduled to undergo another fitness assessment on Tuesday. If the medical team is satisfied with the results, he could receive clearance to travel to New Zealand.
The third unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A is scheduled to begin on November 7. Pant was expected to feature in the match to help him adjust to New Zealand’s conditions and pitches before the senior Test series.
His failure to clear the latest fitness assessment has now put that plan in doubt.
Test Series Availability Also Conditional
Pant’s place in India’s Test squad for the New Zealand series is also subject to his fitness. The report states that he must pass the required assessment within the stipulated timeframe to remain available for selection.
With Pant’s participation in the India A tour uncertain, Kumar Kushagra was included in the squad for the first two unofficial Tests. Dhruv Jurel, who is also the India A captain and a wicketkeeper-batter, is part of the senior Test squad.
Bumrah Reaches New Zealand
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah arrived in New Zealand on Sunday night. He is expected to feature in the third unofficial Test as part of his preparation.
According to the report, Bumrah has not played competitive cricket since the final of the previous Asian Games. The match could therefore provide him with an opportunity to prepare ahead of the upcoming international assignments.
CricBengal Analysis: Tuesday’s fitness assessment will be crucial for Pant. Passing the test could put him back in contention for the New Zealand tour, while any further delay may affect his preparation for the Test series. Until he receives medical clearance, his availability remains uncertain.
Source: Anandabazar Patrika
Published by: CricBengal.com
