Pant ruled out of ODI series vs New Zealand

Rishabh Pant has reportedly been ruled out of the three-match one-day international series between India and New Zealand, which gets underway on Sunday. As per reports, the 28-year-old is out due to an abdominal

injury.

The star wicket-keeper had briefly required treatment after being struck during net practice, as India completed their preparations.

Pant was seen grimacing in pain after being hit just above his waist by Indian throwdown specialists. He was attended to by the team’s support staff and other members, including head coach Gautam Gambhir.

After receiving initial treatment, Pant walked off the field at the BCA Stadium’s Ground B, where India captain Shubman Gill was seen having a lengthy conversation with the chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar.

Although he did not undergo scans or consult a local specialist, the team doctor and physio assessed the injury and deemed it serious enough to rule him out of the three-match series. Sources suggest Pant will leave the Indian camp on Sunday morning, though his return timeline is uncertain.

Who Is Pant Replacement?

Rishabh Pant is currently the second-choice wicketkeeper in India’s ODI squad, behind KL Rahul, which means there is no urgent need for another specialist keeper for Sunday’s match. Despite this, selectors are expected to name a replacement in the coming days, with Ishan Kishan — the preferred second-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 side — emerging as a likely option.

This setback adds to a series of injury troubles that have disrupted Pant’s ODI career in recent years. His last appearance in the format was in August 2024 against Sri Lanka. Despite being named in multiple squads since, he has struggled to regain momentum.

India Vs New Zealand- ODIs

The ODI series against a revamped New Zealand team will commence at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium, marking its debut in hosting a men’s international match. The second ODI is scheduled for January 14 at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium, while the third and final match will take place at Holkar Stadium in Indore.

(With inputs from Agencies)