India’s wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was forced to leave the field after sustaining a blow to his right knee on the second day of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru. Pant was hit by the ball on the knee while keeping wickets, raising concerns due to his history of knee injuries, including a serious ligament injury sustained in a car crash in December 2022.
Pant, who has been making his comeback after undergoing a major knee surgery, was struck on the same knee during the 37th over of New Zealand’s innings. While attempting to collect a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja, Pant missed the ball and was hit directly on the kneecap. He immediately walked off the field and was replaced by Dhruv Jurel.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma addressed the issue after the day’s play, stating that the team opted for a precautionary approach due to Pant’s recent history with knee issues. Rohit confirmed that there was swelling on Pant’s knee, and the team wanted to avoid any further risk, particularly because of the delicate state of Pant’s recovery.
“The ball hit straight on his kneecap, the same leg on which he had surgery done,” said Rohit. “So there’s a bit of swelling, and the muscles are quite tender at this point in time. We didn’t want to take any risks. Rishabh doesn’t want to take a risk either, considering he’s come back from a massive surgery. Hopefully, he can recover overnight and we’ll see him back on the field tomorrow.”
Pant’s injury comes after a long recovery from the severe knee ligament damage he suffered during a car crash nearly a year ago. Following a lengthy rehabilitation process, Pant made his return to competitive cricket during the 2024 IPL season.
As the team awaits further updates on Pant’s condition, New Zealand capitalized on India’s early setbacks. India was bowled out for just 46 in their first innings, marking their lowest Test total at home and the third-lowest overall. By the end of the second day’s play, New Zealand had built a significant lead, reaching 180 for 3, and are ahead by 134 runs.
The team and fans alike will be hoping for positive news on Pant’s recovery, as his presence behind the stumps will be crucial for India’s chances of a comeback in the match.
Read More:- New Zealand tour of India, 2024
