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Rishabh Pant is expected to return to India’s Test squad for the two-match series against Bangladesh, starting on September 19 in Chennai. Having marked his return to international cricket during the victorious T20 World Cup 2024, Pant also made a brief ODI appearance in the series finale against Sri Lanka, though he was dismissed early.
Fans are particularly eager for his Test return, given his impressive record, including centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa, making him one of the few wicketkeepers to achieve such feats.
Rishabh Pant is poised to play his first Test match since his car accident.
Ajit Agarkar, India’s chief selector, and his committee have announced that Rishabh Pant will be gradually reintroduced to each format following his international comeback. Pant returned to professional cricket in March during the IPL 2024 season, where he captained the Delhi Capitals. His impressive performance in the IPL led to his inclusion in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.
Rishabh Pant’s last Test match
Rishabh Pant’s last Test appearance was in December 2022 against Bangladesh in Dhaka. Shortly after, he was involved in a severe car accident near Roorkee while returning from Delhi. Ajit Agarkar and his selection committee are preparing to announce the players for the Duleep Trophy, where Pant is expected to be included in one of the four squads.
The tournament, running from September 5 to September 24, will offer Pant a chance to gear up for the demanding Test season. Pant, known for his stellar performance in Australia—including his pivotal role in ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at Gabba with a memorable knock—will use this opportunity to get match-ready.
Other wicketkeepers are also competing for a spot with Rishabh Pant.
When Rishabh Pant was sidelined due to his accident, KS Bharat was given an opportunity to secure his place in India’s Test squad. Unfortunately, Bharat did not capitalize on his chances, leading to Ishan Kishan being selected. Kishan began his Test career promisingly in the West Indies but faced setbacks after withdrawing from the South Africa series for a mental break.
In the recent home Test series against England, Dhruv Jurel seized his opportunity impressively, making significant contributions with scores of 90 and 39* in the Ranchi Test and earning the Player of the Match award in just his second Test.
With Dhruv Jurel, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul also expected to participate in the Duleep Trophy, Rishabh Pant will be competing with these players for the wicketkeeper role in the Indian team.
