Suspense over Rishabh Pant's participation in Test series against New Zealand due to injury

The Indian team has suffered a major blow ahead of the crucial Test series against New Zealand. According to a report by TV9 Gujarati, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has not yet fully recovered from a side strain injury, due to which he will not be able to play in the matches against New Zealand-A. Pant is currently undergoing a rehabilitation process at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Rishabh Pant's participation in the Test series remains uncertain, and he may miss the Wellington Test starting from November 19. If Pant does not become fit to play, Dhruv Jurel could get an opportunity. On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will take the field against New Zealand-A to prepare for the Test series. Tilak Varma will also play in the match starting from Saturday in Lincoln.

The India-A team will be led by Dhruv Jurel, which also includes Nitish Kumar Reddy. Prasidh Krishna, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, may play to regain match fitness. Additionally, Mohammed Siraj has joined the ODI team in Wellington after resting during the Auckland ODI, having taken 4 wickets in the unofficial Test in Christchurch. Shubman Gill will separate for Test series preparations after the second and third ODIs. India needs to win this series 2-0 to reach the World Test Championship final.