Star India wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has made a significant, and surprisingly quicker recovery from the injuries, and the following surgeries, that he’d suffered in the car accident last December.
Pant endured a near-fatal car accident in the last week of December 2022 but fortunately survived the crash. After being treated initially in Delhi, he was moved to Mumbai where he underwent ligament reconstruction surgery in Mumbai. Three of his ligaments on the right knee needed surgery and it was successful.
After months of rest following the surgery, Pant began his rehab at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy facility in Bangalore and has been at there for the past few months where he’s made a smooth recovery in rehab.
On July 31, the BCCI gave an update, stating that Pant has made “significant progress” and even started some batting and keeping drills.
“He (Rishabh Pant) has made significant progress in his rehabilitation and has commenced batting as well as keeping in the nets. He is currently following a fitness programme designed for him which includes strength, flexibility and running,” BCCI’s press release read.
The biggest video evidence of Rishabh Pant’s recovery came when in August he featured in a practice game at the NCA. There were a few dozen fans in attendance who cheered loudly when the left-hander entered the field to bat, and each of his runs was applauded with gusto from the fans. Rishabh Pant played a few cracking shots and this was celebrated by fans on social media.
@RishabhPant17 back in the ground 😍😍 #rishabhpant pic.twitter.com/M0r1tq9tzl
— Md Israque Ahamed (@IsraqueAhamed) August 16, 2023
When will Rishabh Pant come back to play for India?
The recovery is going smoothly and Rishabh Pant is expected to make his international comeback early next year, if possible in the 5-match home Test series against England in January. If not in the Test series, then Pant is likely to be seen returning in the IPL 2024.
India will be hosting England in 5 Tests from January 25 to March 11.
Will Rishabh Pant play in World Cup 2023?
No, Rishabh Pant will not participate in the World Cup 2023 in India. He will make his return in 2024.
