Is Rishabh Pant Out of the ODI Series Against New Zealand Due to Injury?
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Synopsis
Rishabh Pant's absence from the ODI series against New Zealand due to a right side strain raises concerns for the Indian cricket team. Who will step up in his place? The team is under pressure as they prepare for the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant ruled out of ODI series against New Zealand.
- Injury sustained during practice session.
- Indian team management needs to find a replacement.
- Dhruv Jurel and Ishan Kishan are potential candidates.
- ODI series begins at Baroda Cricket Association Stadium.
Vadodara, Jan 10 (NationPress) India faces a significant hurdle ahead of the opening ODI against New Zealand as wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been declared unfit for the three-match series due to a right side strain.
During an optional practice session at the BCA B ground, Pant appeared focused during his batting stint, which lasted nearly 50 minutes. However, he felt discomfort after taking a hit above the waist from a throwdown specialist's delivery.
He quickly collapsed to the ground in pain and was promptly assisted by the support staff before leaving the nets. “Scans and evaluations by the team doctor revealed that Rishabh sustained a blow to the ribcage on the right side, leading to the diagnosis of a side strain, thus excluding him from this ODI series against New Zealand,” sources with knowledge of the situation informed IANS on Saturday.
Pant is now anticipated to rest for several days before heading to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further evaluation and rehabilitation. He entered the ODI series after leading Delhi in the 2025/26 Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) league stage in Bengaluru.
In that tournament, Pant achieved two half-centuries against Services and Railways, contributing to Delhi's qualification for the knockouts. This marks the second instance Pant has faced injury setbacks, following a fractured right foot he suffered during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, from which he returned to play in the two-match Test series against South Africa at home in November last year.
Pant has been a key member of India’s ODI squad for the past two years but last participated in the 50-over format during the Sri Lanka tour in August 2024. Prior to the ODIs against New Zealand, there were speculations about Pant's exclusion, but the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee chose to retain him in the squad.
With Pant now ruled out, the Indian team management will need to find a replacement. Dhruv Jurel and T20 World Cup-bound Ishan Kishan are strong candidates for his replacement, given their impressive performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The ODI series against New Zealand is set to commence at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium (BCA) in Kotambi, Vadodara, marking the venue's first men’s international match. The second ODI will take place at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on January 14, while the final match is scheduled for the Holkar Stadium in Indore on January 18.
Point of View
It is vital to acknowledge the impact of Rishabh Pant's injury on the Indian cricket squad. While this presents a setback, it also opens opportunities for other players to showcase their talent in a competitive environment. The focus should remain on team resilience and adaptability, ensuring that we support our players during this challenging time.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury has Rishabh Pant sustained?
Rishabh Pant has suffered a right side strain, which has ruled him out of the ODI series against New Zealand.
How long will Pant be sidelined?
Pant is expected to rest for several days before undergoing further assessment and rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Who are the potential replacements for Pant?
Dhruv Jurel and Ishan Kishan are likely candidates to replace Pant in the squad due to their strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
When does the ODI series against New Zealand start?
The ODI series against New Zealand will begin at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium on January 10.
What impact does this injury have on the Indian team?
Pant's absence is a significant loss, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and contribute to the team's success.
