In a significant blow to the Indian cricket team, Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand due to an abdominal injury. The news comes on the eve of the first ODI, scheduled for Saturday, January 11, 2026.
Pant reportedly experienced discomfort in his right lateral abdominal area while batting in the nets. The incident occurred during a practice session where he was struck just above the waist by a delivery from a throwdown specialist. The impact caused him visible distress, prompting immediate attention from the team's support staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir. Despite initial on-field medical assistance, Pant was unable to continue the session with his usual fluidity.
Following the incident, an MRI scan was conducted to assess the extent of the injury. A detailed online consultation with Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala led to the diagnosis of a right-sided strain accompanied by an internal oblique muscle tear. A source told Sports Tak that Pant's "clinical signs and symptoms were not promising" which prompted the MRI. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to release an official statement regarding the nature of the injury.
While KL Rahul is the regular wicketkeeper in India's ODI side, the selectors will soon announce a replacement for Pant.
Pant's absence is a setback for the Indian team, as he is a dynamic player known for his aggressive batting style and valuable contributions behind the stumps. Pant last played an ODI for India against Sri Lanka in July 2024. He was also part of the squad that won the Champions Trophy in 2025, although he did not play in any of the matches. Recently, the left-hander led Delhi in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored two half-centuries against Services and Railways.
The extent of Pant's injury remains unclear, but he will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for further assessment and rehabilitation. The team will now have to strategize and adapt their lineup in his absence as they face New Zealand in the ODI series.
