Rishabh Pant is set to undergo a critical final fitness and simulation assessment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) on November 12. This evaluation will determine if the wicketkeeper-batter is cleared to join the Indian squad for the forthcoming two-Test series in New Zealand.
The 26-year-old has been undergoing rehabilitation following a side strain injury sustained during the Irani Cup match between Rest of India and Jammu & Kashmir in Srinagar. Due to this fitness hurdle, Pant was forced to miss the three India ‘A’ fixtures that preceded the current series.
Recent updates from the CoE indicate positive progress, with Pant appearing comfortable during his dedicated batting and wicketkeeping drills. Reports suggest he has looked in good touch during these sessions, increasing expectations that he will receive formal clearance within the coming days. Having not played international cricket since the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo, his return is a significant development for the team.
Provided he secures the necessary green light from the CoE, Pant is expected to travel to New Zealand to arrive well ahead of the opening match. The first Test is scheduled to begin at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on November 17, followed by the second and final Test, which commences in Christchurch on November 27.
