Bengaluru, November 8, 2025 – Concerns are mounting for the Indian cricket team as Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, retired hurt after sustaining multiple blows during the ongoing India A vs. South Africa A unofficial Test match at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The incident occurred on Day 3 of the match, casting a shadow over Pant's readiness for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on November 14 in Kolkata.
Pant, who was recently named vice-captain for the Test series, was looking to solidify his comeback into the Test side after proving his fitness and form in the first game against South Africa A. However, his innings was cut short after a series of unsettling deliveries from the South African pacers, particularly Tshepo Moreki.
According to reports, Pant was struck on the helmet by a bouncer from Moreki early in his innings, which required immediate medical attention. Shortly after, he inside-edged a ball onto his left forearm, with the impact deflecting into his thigh pad. The team physio attended to him, applying strapping to his wrist, but Pant continued to bat in visible discomfort. Adding to his woes, Pant then received a blow to his abdomen while attempting to defend another delivery.
Visibly struggling and in pain, the decision was made to retire Pant hurt as a precautionary measure. He walked off the field, replaced by Dhruv Jurel, with India A at 108 for 4. Pant's score at the time of his retirement was 17 off 22 balls.
The extent of Pant's injury remains unclear, with no official update released by the BCCI. The nature of the blows, particularly the impact on his forearm, has raised concerns about potential bruising or a more serious injury. This injury scare comes at a crucial time, just days before the start of the Test series against South Africa, leaving the Indian team management in a state of worry.
Pant's aggressive batting style and crucial middle-order presence are vital to India's Test ambitions. His potential absence would not only disrupt the team's batting lineup but also impact the wicket-keeping options. The team will be hoping for a swift recovery, as his experience and counter-attacking abilities are invaluable assets.
The incident has sparked debate about the Bengaluru pitch, with some suggesting that the uneven bounce contributed to the difficulty batsmen faced. The South African pacers, Moreki and Okuhle Cele, exploited the conditions effectively, adding to Pant's challenges.
As of now, all eyes are on the BCCI and the team's medical staff for an update on Pant's condition. Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are anxiously awaiting news regarding his availability for the highly anticipated Test series against South Africa. The team's performance in the series could heavily depend on Pant's presence and fitness.
