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Rishabh Pant declared fit - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, India have received a massive boost as star keeper-batter Rishabh Pant has regained full fitness. The southpaw, who was earlier expected to miss the 1st Test against New Zealand, has now been cleared to take part in the entire series.
A report from Times of India stated that Rishabh Pant will fly to New Zealand next week and has been declared fit to take part in the 1st Test vs New Zealand. Notably, the southpaw underwent match simulation at CoE and batted without any discomfort.
"Pant is set to fly out to New Zealand next week. He will be available for the first Test," sources said speaking to Times of India.
Rishabh Pant Recovers from side strain
For the unversed, Rishabh Pant suffered a side strain injury during the Irani Cup final. The injury was more serious than expected, and the 29-year-old was ruled out of the first two unofficial Tests between India A and New Zealand A.
Despite Rishabh Pant getting fit for the India vs New Zealand Tests, the southpaw will still miss the 3rd unofficial Test against New Zealand A. However, India A can rejoice because Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will join the team for the 3rd four-day game.
Notably, Tilak Varma will also join the India A squad for the 3rd unofficial Test as Rishabh Pant’s replacement.
Prasidh Krishna Recovers From Injury As Well
Meanwhile, India star seamer Prasidh Krishna, who was ruled out of the ODI series because of hamstring injury, has been declared fit as well. Notably, Krishna will feature in the 'A' fixtures ahead of the New Zealand Tests starting on November 19.
The BCCI is carefully managing everyone's workload and Krishna was pulled out of the India squad for New Zealand Tests to prevent him from exertion before the Test series. Notably, the right-arm seamer has spent 3 weeks out of action.
Auqib Nabi was added to India squad as Prasidh Krishna's replacement and the J&K star took his first-ever wicket in India colours in the ongoing 2nd ODI.
