Rishabh Pant, India’s first-choice wicketkeeper, injured his knee during a training session in Dubai, disrupting the team’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The event occurred during the Indian squad’s hard net training in preparation for important tournament matches.
How the injury occurred
During the session, all-rounder Hardik Pandya was bowling in the nets when he launched a sharp, rising delivery. Pant, known for his aggressive stroke-play, tried to hit a drive but misjudged the pace and bounce, leading the ball to break his knee. Pant gasped in pain and took a few moments to recover from what appeared to be a hard blow. Witnesses said medical experts and physiotherapists rushed to his side to examine his condition. Despite his pain, Pant demonstrated amazing bravery in continuing to bat after receiving initial treatment, much to the satisfaction of the coaching staff and players.
Relevance of the Injury
Pant’s injury scare is especially alarming for India, given his history of knee issues. After surviving a near-fatal car accident in 2022, Pant underwent extensive knee surgery and a lengthy recovery period before returning to international cricket in 2024. Since his return, he has played a crucial role for the Indian squad, putting his powerful hitting and fine wicket-keeping qualities back into play. Fans and team management expected Pant to be totally healthy for the competition, so his sudden setback raised concerns. His ability to remain at the crease and continue hitting gave the camp hope that the injury was not too serious. However, the BCCI medical staff is anticipated to closely monitor his condition in the coming days to prevent any setbacks.
Team India’s Response and Support
Following the workout, skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid spoke with the medical team to see whether Pant would require extra rest before the following match. While the incident did not appear to be significant, team management has chosen to give Pant reduced training sessions to ensure he remains in peak condition for the Champions Trophy. His colleagues, including Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, were seen checking on him, while Hardik Pandya personally apologized for the unfortunate injury. The entire team stayed positive, with Pant even laughing about the injury issue later in the locker room.
Impact on India’s Playing XI
If Pant’s knee issue worsens or the medical team suggests rest, India may have to reconsider their wicket-keeping options. Pant is now the starting goalkeeper, with KL Rahul serving as a backup. Rahul has kept wickets in a few ODIs but is not an expert in the role. The injury has also revived talk in the Indian camp about having a third wicketkeeper, potentially Ishan Kishan or Sanju Samson, in the squad if Pant is not totally healthy. However, team sources believe Pant will be available for India’s first Champions Trophy match.
Summary
Despite the immediate concern, Rishabh Pant’s tenacity and determination to continue batting after the blow comforted fans and Indian teammates. The next several days will be key in monitoring his recovery, but early signs indicate he will be able to compete in the Champions Trophy. His participation will be critical for India, given his aggressive hitting, leadership abilities behind the stumps, and expertise in high-pressure tournaments.
Rishabh Pant sustained a knee injury from a Hardik Pandya shot during India’s training in Dubai but showed resilience by continuing to bat. Fitness updates awaited. Rishabh Pant sustained a knee injury from a Hardik Pandya shot during India’s training in Dubai but showed resilience by continuing to bat. Fitness updates awaited. Rishabh Pant sustained a knee injury from a Hardik Pandya shot during India’s training in Dubai but showed resilience by continuing to bat. Fitness updates awaited.
“Rishabh Pant suffered a knee injury from a Hardik Pandya shot during India’s training in Dubai, but he persevered by continuing to bat. Fitness reports were awaited”.
