IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Who can replace Rishabh Pant?
Sports Desk, New Delhi. Rishabh Pant Injury: Just before the start of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team has suffered a major setback. Star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the entire series due to 'side strain' in his right side.
It is being told that Pant got injured during the practice session at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Vadodara on Saturday, January 10.
A ball hit him in the ribs above his waist. Pant was seen groaning after the injury and was immediately taken out of the field. There is no information from BCCI yet on his injury, but there are reports that Pant's injury is more serious and he will not be able to take part in the series against New Zealand. In such a situation, who can replace him?
IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Who can replace Rishabh Pant?
Although KL Rahul is the regular wicketkeeper of the Indian ODI team, but Pant was included in the team to be his backup. Pant played his last ODI in 2024. He was also a part of the Indian ODI team in the Champions Trophy 2025, but he did not get a chance to play a single match. If Pant is out of the ODI series, then Dhruv Jurail, not Ishan Kishan or Sanju Samson, can be made his replacement.
Dhruv Jurail can become Pant's replacement
Dhruv Jurail has made his debut for India in Test and T20, but he has not got a chance to play ODI match yet. If we talk about his List-A record, he has scored 747 runs in 17 matches with an average of 74.70.
During this period he scored 2 centuries. His bat is also roaring in the current season of Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is at third position in the list of batsmen scoring the most runs in this series with 558 runs. At this time there is no better replacement for Pant than Jurail.
These 3 players are also contenders
This explosive left-handed batsman is being considered the biggest contender for a comeback. He is in excellent form after scoring a brilliant century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Like Pant, he also gives the option of aggressive batting in the middle order.
Sanju's record in ODI cricket has been excellent. Recently, in List-A cricket, he has presented his claim by scoring a quick century. If the team needs experience and stability, Sanju can be the first choice.
Known for his power-hitting and excellent wicket-keeping, Jitesh can play the role of an excellent 'finisher'. Although he has less ODI experience, he is a strong option for emergency backup.
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Also read- IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Big blow to Indian team, Rishabh Pant out of ODI series