India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is on the verge of a thrilling return to competitive cricket. He is expected to feature for Delhi in the upcoming 2025/26 Ranji Trophy. This comeback hinges on a final fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Pant has been undergoing rigorous training at the CoE since mid-September. His progress is being closely monitored by the medical team. Another crucial assessment on his right foot is scheduled for next week.
The dedicated cricketer recently celebrated his 28th birthday. He has been pushing hard in his rehabilitation sessions. His commitment to returning to the field is evident in his training intensity.
A significant milestone was reached earlier this month. Pant began his batting sessions in the CoE nets. This indicates his recovery is progressing at a remarkable pace.
Sources suggest Pant could receive clearance very soon. If declared fully fit, he might be available for Delhi’s Ranji Trophy matches starting October 25. The match against Hyderabad on October 15 might be too soon for proper match fitness testing.
His return depends entirely on that all-important clearance. Once he gets the green light, he will link up with the Delhi team. Fans are eagerly awaiting his comeback.
Pant’s injury occurred during the fourth Test against England in Manchester. He suffered a fracture in the metatarsal of his right foot. This happened after he inside-edged a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes.
He was forced to retire hurt on 37 runs. Subsequent scans at the hospital confirmed the fracture. It was a disappointing end to his innings.
Remarkably, Pant showed incredible courage the next day. He returned to bat despite arriving at the stadium in a moonboot. He went on to score a valiant 54 runs.
Pant had an outstanding tour of England. He amassed 479 runs in just seven innings. His stunning average of 68.42 included two sparkling centuries at Headingley.
The long recovery period has kept him out of recent series. He missed the Test series against the West Indies. He will also miss the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia.
His performance in the Ranji Trophy will be closely watched. If he fares well against Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry, it could lead to national team selection. A strong showing would demonstrate his readiness for international cricket.
This could pave the way for his inclusion in the Test squad against South Africa. The series begins on November 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. It would be a fantastic return for the vice-captain.
The entire cricketing community is rooting for his successful comeback. His return would bolster both Delhi and Team India. Everyone hopes to see him back doing what he does best.