Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant faced a minor scare during a net session on Saturday, requiring brief treatment after being struck by a delivery. The incident occurred as the Indian team conducted its final preparations for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on Sunday, January 12, at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium.
Net Session Incident and Immediate Response
Pant was practicing his batting against the team's throwdown specialists when a ball struck him above the waist. The impact was significant enough for the dynamic left-hander to grimace in visible pain. The team's support staff rushed to his aid immediately. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was also present on the spot, closely monitoring the situation as Pant received initial attention.
After the preliminary treatment on the field, Pant walked off from Ground B at the BCA Stadium. Following this, a notable interaction was observed between India captain Shubman Gill and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar. The two were seen engaged in a lengthy discussion, though the specific topic was not disclosed.
Optional Training Sees Rohit Sharma Mentor Siraj
The day featured an optional training session where other players also tuned their skills. In an interesting moment, former captain Rohit Sharma was seen offering batting tips to pacer Mohammed Siraj. Siraj, who had come in for an early batting stint, was struggling to connect cleanly while attempting to hoick the ball. Sharma's guidance provided a moment of mentorship during the practice.
Other key players were also in action. India vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who recently led Mumbai in a narrow one-run loss to Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Thursday, batted in partnership with KL Rahul. Ravindra Jadeja also had a hit in the nets alongside Pant. Notably, Pant, Iyer, and Siraj have all recently featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for their respective state teams, with their last matches played on January 8.
Series Schedule and Context
The focus now shifts to the upcoming ODI series against a new-look New Zealand side. The opening match is set for the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. The series will then move to Rajkot's Niranjan Shah Stadium for the second ODI on January 14, concluding with the final match at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
While Pant's knock was a concern, his ability to walk off the field is a positive sign. The team management will likely assess his condition before the series opener. This series marks an important step in India's white-ball preparations, offering opportunities for players to solidify their positions.
