The return of Rishabh Pant to the Indian cricket team has been further delayed following an update on his injury. The wicketkeeper-batsman sustained a leg fracture during the Test series against England, sidelining him for three to four weeks. Initially, it was anticipated that Pant would rejoin the team for the Test series against the West Indies. However, new reports suggest that he will miss the upcoming two Test matches against the West Indies, along with eight white-ball matches during the Australia tour, totaling ten matches.
These ten matches include the two Test matches against the West Indies and the eight matches against Australia, which are comprised of five T20Is and three ODIs. According to reports, Pant is not yet fully fit, which will likely prevent his selection for both the West Indies and Australia series.
India is scheduled to play two Test matches against the West Indies from October 2nd to October 14th. The white-ball series against Australia will commence on October 19th and conclude on November 8th. The availability of Rishabh Pant for these series is uncertain. Reports indicate that the swelling in his leg has not subsided, and he is still in the process of removing his walking boots.
The anticipated return of Rishabh Pant to the field is now expected to be during the home series against South Africa, which is scheduled to begin in November. The Test series between India and South Africa will commence on November 14th, with the first match at Eden Gardens, followed by the second Test in Guwahati on November 22nd. Following the Tests, there will be three ODIs and five T20Is. The ODI series will take place from November 30th to December 6th, while the five T20I matches will be held from December 9th to December 19th.