Star wicketkeeper-batter close to BCCI medical clearance after lengthy recovery
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is on the verge of making his much-awaited return to competitive cricket, with the Ranji Trophy likely to mark his comeback later this month. According to reports, Pant could be available to turn out for Delhi from October 25, subject to clearance from the BCCI’s medical team.
Medical team to decide this week
Pant, who has been sidelined since suffering a fractured metatarsal during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, will undergo a crucial assessment at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) this week. If cleared, he is expected to resume domestic action after nearly three months on the sidelines.
“As of now, there is a likelihood he could be cleared by October 10. It has been a long road to recovery, and the medical team does not want to rush his return,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying.
Communication with DDCA
Pant has already informed the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) of his desire to represent the state in this season’s Ranji Trophy. DDCA president Rohan Jaitley confirmed that Pant has expressed interest in playing from October 25, though he has stressed that the final decision rests on medical clearance.
“Pant has said he should be available for the Ranji Trophy matches in Delhi from October 25, subject to fitness and BCCI approval,” a DDCA official stated. “Playing the first-round match from October 15 seems too early, but if cleared, he is likely to lead the side.”
Long recovery after England setback
Initially, Pant’s injury was expected to heal within six weeks. However, the damage worsened when the left-hander continued batting despite the fracture, causing the metatarsal in his right foot to snap. The setback not only ruled him out of the final England Test but also sidelined him from the Asia Cup, the home Test series against West Indies, and India’s upcoming white-ball tour of Australia.
The 26-year-old has shown encouraging progress over the past three weeks, raising hopes of an earlier-than-expected return.
South Africa Tests in focus
India host South Africa for a two-Test series starting November 14, and Pant’s domestic return is seen as a critical step in his match readiness. Depending on when he receives clearance, he could feature in up to two Ranji Trophy matches before November 5, giving him valuable game time ahead of the high-profile series.
For Delhi, Pant’s return would not just bolster the squad with his batting and wicketkeeping prowess but also add leadership experience. For India, it marks a timely boost ahead of a crucial home season.