 Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of India vs New Zealand ODI Series
Rishabh Pant ruled out of India vs New Zealand ODI series has come as a major setback for Team India just days before the opening match in Vadodara. The wicketkeeper-batter has been forced to miss the entire three-match ODI series after picking up an injury during a practice session, prompting a last-minute change in the Indian squad.
The development has slightly disrupted India’s preparations, especially with the series marking an important phase in the team’s ODI calendar.
Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of India vs New Zealand ODI Series Due to Injury
According to an official update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Rishabh Pant felt pain in his right lateral abdominal area while batting in the nets. Medical examinations and scans later confirmed that the left-handed batter had suffered an oblique muscle strain.
Given the nature of the injury and the demanding international schedule ahead, the team management decided not to take any risks. As a result, Rishabh Pant ruled out of India vs New Zealand ODI series was officially confirmed, ruling him out of all three matches.
Pant’s absence is significant as he brings experience, aggression, and balance to India’s middle order in limited-overs cricket.
Dhruv Jurel Named as Replacement for Rishabh Pant
Following the injury setback, the Men’s Selection Committee announced Dhruv Jurel as Pant’s replacement in the ODI squad. The young wicketkeeper-batter has joined the Indian team ahead of the first ODI and is expected to serve as a backup wicketkeeping option during the series.
Jurel has been in impressive form in domestic cricket and has earned praise for his calm temperament and sound technique. While replacing a player of Pant’s stature is never easy, Jurel’s selection adds depth and flexibility to the Indian squad.
India’s Batting Strength Despite Pant’s Absence
Although Rishabh Pant ruled out of India vs New Zealand ODI series is a notable blow, India still possess a strong and experienced batting lineup. Senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul are expected to shoulder additional responsibility.
KL Rahul’s ability to keep wickets also provides the team management with tactical flexibility when selecting the playing XI, ensuring balance in both batting and fielding departments.
What This Means for the ODI Series
The injury setback adds an unexpected twist to the India vs New Zealand ODI series, making the contest even more intriguing. New Zealand will look to capitalize on Pant’s absence, while India will aim to maintain their dominance at home.
For DhruvJurel, the series presents a valuable opportunity to gain international exposure and prove his readiness at the highest level.
Final Word
The news of Rishabh Pant ruled out of India vs New Zealand ODI series has altered India’s plans ahead of the opening ODI, but the team still appears well-equipped to handle the challenge. With a blend of experience and young talent, India will look to adapt quickly and start the series on a positive note against a competitive New Zealand side
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