New Delhi, AYT News | Indian cricket team during the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant sustained a knee injury, leading to speculation about his participation in the ongoing match. Indian captain Rohit Sharma provided an update, expressing hope that Pant might return for Day 3 of the Test, despite visible swelling on his knee. The injury occurred on Day 2 when Pant, while keeping wickets, was hit on the knee by a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja that spun sharply. This incident forced Pant to leave the field, raising immediate concerns over his condition for the remainder of the Test.
Addressing the media, Rohit Sharma mentioned that while there was considerable swelling around Pants knee, and the muscles were tender, the team was adopting a cautious approach. "We hope he can come back stronger for the third day, but we're not taking any risks with his health," Sharma stated, underscoring the team's dilemma between Pant's recovery and his potential contribution to the game. Pant's absence, even for a part of the Test, could impact India's strategy, both with the bat and behind the stumps. His aggressive batting style has often turned matches in India's favor, and his departure could mean a reshuffle in the batting order or a change in the wicket-keeping duties.
With Pant's condition under observation, the team management might need to consider alternatives. The presence or absence of Pant could affect not just the fielding positions but also the momentum in batting, especially given New Zealand's strong position in the series opener.