New Delhi, November 2: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has failed to clear his initial fitness test ahead of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. However, his hopes of joining the tour remain alive, with the BCCI medical team expected to give him another opportunity to prove his fitness.
Pant underwent the assessment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on Sunday but reportedly failed to meet the required fitness standards. The medical team is expected to conduct another assessment within the next two days. His availability for the New Zealand tour will depend on the outcome.
Pant suffered a side strain while playing in the Irani Cup in early October. He has been undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence since October 23 and has resumed batting and wicketkeeping drills.
If he clears the next fitness assessment, Pant could join India A for the third four-day match against New Zealand A, scheduled to begin in Lincoln on November 7. The match could provide him with an opportunity to regain match fitness ahead of the senior team's Test assignment.
Pant has been named in India's squad for the two-Test series against New Zealand, subject to fitness clearance. The opening Test is scheduled to begin in Wellington on November 19.
Meanwhile, head coach Gautam Gambhir said he currently had no confirmed information about Pant's availability. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has already travelled to New Zealand and is expected to feature in the third four-day match for India A.
