Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 6: India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is inching closer to a return to competitive cricket, with his sights set on representing Delhi in the upcoming 2025/26 Ranji Trophy later this month. His participation, however, hinges on a final medical clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, where he has been undergoing intensive rehab and training since mid-September.
Sources indicate that Pant, who turned 28 recently, has shown remarkable progress in his recovery from a metatarsal fracture sustained during the England Test series in July. Having resumed batting at the CoE nets earlier this month, Pant appears on track to regain match fitness soon. A decisive assessment of his right foot by the BCCI’s medical team is expected next week.
According to those familiar with the situation, if cleared, Pant is likely to feature in two Ranji Trophy fixtures at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium — against Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry. However, the clash against Hyderabad on October 15 may come too soon for a competitive return, as selectors want to ensure he's fully match-ready.
Pant's injury occurred during the fourth Test in Manchester, where he fractured his right foot while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. Despite the injury, he returned the next day in a moonboot and courageously added 17 more runs to complete a gritty half-century.
The extended recovery timeline forced Pant to miss India's recent Test series against the West Indies and ruled him out of the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia. However, strong performances in the Ranji games could fast-track his return to the national setup — with India set to face World Test Championship holders South Africa in a two-match series beginning November 14 at Eden Gardens.
Pant, currently India’s Test vice-captain, was in sensational form during the England tour, amassing 479 runs in seven innings at an average of 68.42, including two memorable centuries at Headingley. His potential return would be a major boost for India ahead of a busy international schedule.