Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of New Zealand ODI Series Due to Rib Injury
Rishabh Pant sidelined by ribcage injury ahead of ODI series.
India have received a major setback with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant being ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand due to a right-side strain injury. The issue surfaced during an optional practice session at the BCA B Ground in Vadodara, where Pant appeared in good rhythm during a 50-minute batting stint. However, he experienced severe discomfort after taking a blow above the waist from a throwdown delivery, immediately collapsing to his knees in pain.
Medical assessment, including scans conducted by the team doctor, confirmed a blow to the ribcage on the right side, resulting in a detectable side strain. Sources familiar with the development confirmed to IANS on Saturday that the injury has forced Pant's complete withdrawal from the series. He is now scheduled to undergo several days of rest before reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for detailed evaluation and rehabilitation.
Pant had entered the ODI series in strong form after leading Delhi in the league stage of the 2025/26 Vijay Hazare Trophy in Bengaluru. He scored two half-centuries against Services and Railways, helping Delhi secure a place in the knockouts. This latest injury marks the second significant setback for Pant in recent times, following a right foot fracture sustained during the fourth Test against England at Manchester, from which he recovered to play the home Tests against South Africa in November last year.
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Despite speculation about his potential exclusion from the ODI squad due to limited recent appearances in the 50-over format—his last ODI came during the Sri Lanka tour in August 2024—the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee opted to retain him. His absence now leaves a significant gap in the middle order and behind the stumps, compelling the team management to urgently identify a suitable replacement for the series opener.
With Dhruv Jurel and T20 World Cup-bound Ishan Kishan emerging as the leading contenders based on their impressive performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India will look to fill the void effectively. The three-match ODI series commences at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on January 12, followed by matches at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on January 14 and the Holkar Stadium in Indore on January 18.
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