India’s star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant may have to wait for sidelines a lot longer than expected. Reportedly, Pant will be out of action for three to four weeks more as he is yet to recover from the toe fracture suffered on England tour during the Manchester Test.
As per Dainik Jagran’s report, Pant is set to be ruled out of the two-Test series against West Indies at home next month. If the wicketkeeper-batter is out of action for four more weeks, he is unlikely to be on the flight to Australia for limited-overs series featuring three ODIs and five T20Is.
The report further claims that Pant has been using walking boots after the cast was removed off his foot was removed. He is likely to get rid of the walking boots soon.
Pant’s likely return to action
After regaining full fitness, he is likely to return to action for the home series against South Africa, featuring two Tests, which will begin on November 14.
India’s Test squad announcement soon
India’s squad for the Test series against the Caribbean side is set to be announced next week. The current selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar which features a few outgoing selectors as well, will pick the Test squad.
Who will replace Pant in Test squad?
Dhruv Jurel is highly likely to keep wickets in the absence of Pant. He scored 140 against Australia in first unofficial Test against Australia A in Lucknow. The back-up wicketkeeper Narayan Jagadeesan who was called to England after Pant’s injury is likely to retain his place. Jagadeesan scored 197 and unbeaten 52 for South Zone against North Zone in Duleep Trophy 2025 semifinal. He followed it up with a 64-run knock.
West Indies’ Test squad announced
Meanwhile, West Indies have already announced their squad for the Test series. Tagenarine Chanderpaul has replaced veteran batter Kraigg Brathwaite. Alick Athanaze has made a comeback as well whereas left-arm spinner Khary Pierre received maiden call-up to The Test team.
West Indies’ Test squad - Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican, Kevlon Anderson, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Anderson Phillip, Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales.