India’s star wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant, is gearing up for a return to red-ball cricket after a challenging period away from the game.
The 26-year-old, who has been absent from Test cricket since a serious car accident in December 2022, is now back in the plans of selectors Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh.
Pant’s last appearance in a Test match was against Bangladesh in Mirpur, where he delivered a memorable 102-run knock. But just a week later, a near-fatal collision near Roorkee kept him sidelined for much of 2023 as he focused on his recovery. His gradual return to cricket began at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), leading to a competitive comeback with the Delhi Capitals in the 2024 IPL.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits his return to the longer format, Pant is expected to participate in the Duleep Trophy, set between September 5th to 24th. This domestic tournament will be a vital preparation ground for him and other players under the watchful eye of Agarkar’s selection committee.
India’s Test campaign against Bangladesh kicks off on September 19th with a two-match series, followed by a series of T20Is. Pant’s anticipated return to the Test squad marks a significant chapter in his journey, showcasing his resilience and determination to reclaim his spot in the national team.
