Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the third unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A, which begins on November 7. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter has resumed skill training after recovering from his injury, but the team management has decided against rushing his return to competitive cricket.

Pant's absence also raises questions about his availability for the first Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on November 19. He sustained the injury during the Irani Cup final in Jammu, and the medical staff has been monitoring his fitness. His recovery is progressing well, although he is yet to receive clearance.

Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of Third Unofficial Test Against New Zealand A

Rishabh Pant has started skill training and is currently experiencing no pain. The medical staff has also found no clinical symptoms related to his injury during his recovery. However, he has not received clearance to return to competitive cricket.

According to Jagran News, Pant must complete three to four practice sessions before the medical team can establish a clearer return-to-play timeline. The staff will assess his physical condition, batting and wicketkeeping during these sessions.

The medical and support staff are monitoring his progress and will prepare a return plan based on the results. The team management does not want to take any risks with his fitness and will prioritize his full recovery to prevent a recurrence of the injury.

The third unofficial Test would have given Pant an opportunity to get valuable match practice before the senior team's Test series. However, the team management has decided to rest him as a precautionary measure.

Dhruv Jurel Could Replace Pant for New Zealand Test Series

The third unofficial Test was Rishabh Pant's only remaining opportunity to get match practice before India's upcoming Test series in New Zealand. Missing the fixture means he will have less time to adjust to the conditions and prepare for the challenges of playing red-ball cricket.

Even if Pant becomes fully fit before the first Test on November 19, he may need time to adapt to the local conditions. The team management could therefore consider selecting Dhruv Jurel, who has been performing consistently well and has already had an opportunity to get accustomed to the conditions.

Jurel's recent performances could strengthen his case for a place in the playing XI if Pant is unavailable or not considered match-ready. The management will have to weigh Pant's experience against Jurel's current form and familiarity with the conditions before making its selection.

How Did Rishabh Pant Perform on India's Last New Zealand Tour?

India last toured New Zealand for an away Test series in 2020. Rishabh Pant was part of that squad and remains among the few players from the touring group who are still active in India's Test setup. His previous experience in the country could be relevant ahead of the upcoming series.

However, the left-handed batter endured a difficult campaign during that tour. He struggled to make an impact with the bat against the Black Caps and managed a highest score of just 25 runs across four innings. His performances reflected the challenges he faced in New Zealand's conditions.

Pant will now hope to complete his recovery and become available for the upcoming series. With the first Test scheduled for November 19, the next few practice sessions will be important in determining whether he can regain match fitness in time.