India hopeful Rishabh Pant will get fit for South Africa Test series

India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant continues to remain on the sidelines as he works his way back to full fitness following a foot injury. The left-hander had sustained the injury during the Test series against England earlier this year, and as expected, his name is absent from the squad announced for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies.

Pant's injury occurred under unfortunate circumstances when he attempted a reverse sweep against English pacer Chris Woakes. The shot went horribly wrong, causing immediate discomfort. He was visibly in pain and had to be taken off the field in a golf cart. Since that incident, Pant has not participated in any competitive cricket and has been undergoing a structured rehabilitation program at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, while announcing the squad, expressed optimism over Pant’s recovery. He stated that the team is hopeful of having the southpaw back in contention for the next big assignment — the Test series against South Africa. 

“Rishabh is the vice-captain at the moment and a key player. But unfortunately, he hasn't quite recovered to make this particular Test series. We're hopeful that he'll be available for South Africa,” Agarkar said during the press conference. In the meantime, India have also named Ravindra Jadeja as vice-captain for the series against the West Indies.

Dhruv Jurel to be the first-choice wicketkeeper in Pant’s absence

In Pant’s absence, Dhruv Jurel has been entrusted with the role of the first-choice wicketkeeper. Jurel impressed during the England series with his glovework and temperament under pressure. His consistent performances for India A have further solidified his credentials, making his selection a natural choice.

Joining him in the squad is Narayan Jagadeesan, who has been named as the backup wicketkeeper for the West Indies Tests. Jagadeesan was also part of the squad during the final Test against England after Pant was officially ruled out. Though yet to make his Test debut, Jagadeesan’s domestic performances have kept him in the selectors' radar, and this series could offer him an opportunity depending on team composition and match situations.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!