Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of New Zealand ODI Series with Internal Oblique Muscle Tear

India's wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand due to an injury sustained during a practice session in Vadodara on Saturday.

Pant was struck in the abdominal area by a delivery from a throwdown specialist during an extended batting session and was seen grimacing in pain before leaving the field. Subsequent medical assessment confirmed the severity of the blow, sidelining the left-hander for the entire series.

This injury is a setback for Pant, who was looking to cement his place in the ODI squad, having last played the format in July 2024. With KL Rahul already established as the primary wicketkeeper-batter in the 50-over format, the team management is expected to name a replacement soon, with Ishan Kishan being a likely candidate.