Will Rishabh Pant recover in time for Asia Cup?

• Pant's Asia Cup status uncertain after foot fracture in England series.
• Samson & Jitesh may replace Pant as wicketkeepers for Asia Cup.
• Pant eyes South Africa series return, prioritizing World Cup fitness.

With the Asia Cup 2025 approaching, there is rising speculation over Rishabh Pant's availability. The star wicketkeeper-batter remains one of India's most

explosive T20 players, but recent injury concerns have cast serious doubt on his participation. The Asia Cup, set to be played in the T20 format in the UAE, will be crucial preparation ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.

Pant suffered a fresh injury during India's Test series against England in July. While batting in the 4th Test in Manchester, he suffered a fractured foot and got subsequently ruled out from the final match. The India star has been handed a six-week layoff from the action, which puts his Asia Cup prospects in jeopardy.

Pant had returned earlier this year in IPL 2025 and looked in promising touch for Delhi Capitals. He scored over 400 runs and kept wickets regularly, which convinced the selectors to bring him back into the national side. But the injury in England has once again put him on the sidelines.

Given the short recovery window and the harsh playing conditions in the UAE, the selectors are expected to take a cautious approach. Even if Pant is declared fit by the time of selection, rushing him into the squad could be risky. With key tournaments ahead, preserving his long-term fitness will be a priority.

India will be playing West Indies and South Africa in subsequent Test series at home, and Pant's availability in the red ball format may be prioritized.

India also has reliable options in Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma. Samson has shown glimpses of his potential and can anchor the middle order. Jitesh, on the other hand, offers fearless hitting and is known for finishing games under pressure. Both are in contention and are likely to be preferred in Pant's absence.

Rishabh Pant may not be picked for the Asia Cup. The selectors may go ahead with Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma as the two wicketkeeping choices for the T20 tournament. Pant will likely target a full return in the South Africa series later in the year, with eyes firmly on the World Cup.