Pant ruled out of India-NZ ODIs; Kohli lifts camp during training
Pant ruled out of India-NZ ODIs; Kohli lifts camp during training
Rishabh Pant sidelined with a right-sided strain and internal oblique tear as India gears up for a three-match ODI series vs New Zealand; Kohli brings a light mood to the training camp in Vadodara.
Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand after being diagnosed with a right-sided strain that includes an internal oblique muscle tear. With Pant unavailable, KL Rahul is set to take the gloves as India confirm a replacement for their first-choice wicketkeeper ahead of the three-match ODI campaign.
The team has gathered in Vadodara to start preparations for the series opener, which is scheduled to begin this Sunday. While Pant’s injury creates a vacancy behind the stumps, the mood in camp remains upbeat as senior leaders prepare to shoulder increased responsibility in a demanding stretch that follows the ODIs with a heavy T20 schedule, including a five-match series against New Zealand, the T20 World Cup, and the Indian Premier League.
On the field, Virat Kohli has been the focal point for fans and teammates alike. In a training session marked by a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere, Kohli entertained teammates by mimicking Arshdeep Singh's distinctive run-up, drawing smiles and light-hearted moments as India went through a rigorous practice with pace, spin, and throw-down specialists. Rohit Sharma was seen applauding Kohli’s energy, with both seasoned batters looking in good touch as they stepped up to the nets and built their innings against Indian pacers and spinners.
Kohli's leadership and form have become talking points as India look to start the series strongly. The former captain, who struck 77 and 131 in domestic competition, appeared at ease during extended batting sessions that lasted close to 90 minutes. The camp also highlighted the balance and depth in India's squad, with Shubman Gill continuing to be backed as captain-worthy talent and Shreyas Iyer in focus for his return to the lineup after injury lay-offs.
From the opposition's side, New Zealand head into the series with a relatively younger unit, facing questions about how best to confront an established Indian top order. Reports from the broader coverage note that New Zealand will need a collective effort from their experienced duo and the next generation to test India's preparations. The hidden challenge for both teams will be adapting quickly to the conditions in Vadodara and translating practice into match-ready performance as the series kicks off a busy season for both sides.
