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Ahead of the anticipated Asia Cup 2023 and World Cup 2023, there's uplifting news for Team India. Dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has finally picked up the bat again after his car accident in December 2022. On August 15, Pant showcased his batting prowess on the field, hitting some splendid shots, a spectacle that's now going viral on social media.
If Pant's recovery continues at this pace, he could potentially make an appearance in the ODI World Cup 2023, commencing on October 5 in India.
August 15 is Independence Day in India and on the special occasion, Pant was seen playing cricket in Vijaynagar, near Bellary. Fully geared up, Pant stepped onto the pitch and showed glimpses of the ability which fans have seen since his debut in 2017.
Although the batter refrained from any intensive running, the audience witnessed him playing some attractive shots. This marks roughly seven months since his accident that he's publicly played cricket. However, Pant is currently focused on his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) located in Bengaluru and it is highly unlikely that he will make full fitness in time for the ODI World Cup.
It's expected that only after the World Cup, when Team India returns to international cricket, might we witness a fully-fit Pant making his grand return. Pant's absence has been a significant blow to the Indian Test Team, culminating in their defeat against Australia in the World Test Championship 2023 final.
In ODIs, the lingering issue over the number four spot remains. Had Pant been fit, he could have been the solution to the number four conundrum. However, the harrowing car accident in December 2022 has, to a large extent, dimmed Pant's dream of participating in the World Cup 2023.
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