The CoE provided an update on Saturday evening via email to the Indian team management and the national selection committee. This communication detailed the current injury status of Pant, as well as fellow players Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana. Despite the formal update, India head coach Gautam Gambhir stated on Sunday that he had not yet received specific information regarding Pant's progress.
Fitness timeline and domestic availability
Pant has already commenced light cricket-specific training at the CoE. While officials originally intended to conduct the simulation test earlier, the schedule was adjusted due to the Diwali holiday period. Should he successfully pass the assessment on November 9, the plan is for him to travel directly to New Zealand to join the squad.
In addition to his international ambitions, Pant has proactively communicated his status to the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA). He informed DDCA president Rohan Jaitley on Monday that he intends to participate in the domestic season, specifically targeting the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which begins on November 14, followed by the Vijay Hazare Trophy. These domestic commitments serve as a contingency plan should he fail to receive medical clearance for the New Zealand tour.
Updates on other squad members
The CoE is also managing the recovery of other players, including Harshit Rana. Rana, who has been named in the India 'A' squad for the upcoming Rising Stars Asia Cup in Doha starting November 20, is expected to receive medical clearance from the CoE on Tuesday. The team management remains focused on ensuring all players are fully fit before their respective international and regional assignments.
