Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the opening two matches of India A’s upcoming multi-day series against New Zealand ‘A’. The wicketkeeper-batter sustained a left side strain while leading Rest of India in the Irani Cup, and his fitness for the third fixture will be evaluated later.
Wicketkeeping Duties and Replacement
Pant’s selection was initially subject to fitness clearance. In his absence, team captain Dhruv Jurel will take over as the primary wicketkeeper for the first two games. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Kumar Kushagra has been named as Pant’s replacement to provide cover behind the stumps.
Kushagra’s Form and Series Schedule
Kushagra enters the squad in excellent red-ball form, having smashed two centuries in his previous three first-class appearances. His recent runs include a hundred in the Duleep Trophy final and another century against Australia ‘A’ in Puducherry.
Featuring several Test regulars, the tour serves as crucial preparation for India’s upcoming two-Test series, which is key to their World Test Championship campaign.
- October 24: First match begins in Lincoln
- October 31: Second match played in Christchurch
- November 7: Final match takes place back in Lincoln
