Rishabh Pant ruled out of IND vs NZ ODIs, replacement to be announced soon

India have suffered a major setback just ahead of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant ruled out due to an abdominal injury. The series is set to kick off in Vadodara on Sunday, January 11, and Pant’s absence will certainly be felt in the Indian lineup.

The 26-year-old experienced sudden discomfort in his right lateral abdominal area while batting in the nets during practice, prompting immediate medical attention. Given the seriousness of the issue, the team arranged an MRI scan to evaluate the extent of the injury.

Following a detailed consultation with renowned orthopaedic specialist Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Pant was diagnosed with a right-sided strain coupled with an internal oblique muscle tear. Unfortunately, this rules him out of all three ODIs.

Pant has been a key figure for India, offering explosive batting in the middle order and reliable work behind the stumps. His injury leaves a significant gap that the team management will now need to address, both in terms of the playing XI and the balance of the squad.

After a few days of rest, Pant is expected to report to the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for further assessment and rehabilitation. In the meantime, India will likely turn to another wicketkeeper-batter to step into the squad, while adjusting their plans to cope with the absence of one of their most dynamic players.

Losing Pant at this stage is a blow for India, but the series is still set to be competitive, with the team hoping others can rise to the occasion in his absence.