Rishabh Pant Nears Competitive Return in Ranji Trophy October 25

Rishabh Pant is nearing a return to competitive cricket after recovering from a right foot fracture sustained during the England Test series in July. He is expected to undergo a final fitness assessment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, with the possibility of playing for Delhi in the second round of the Ranji Trophy starting October 25. Pant's return to domestic cricket is seen as a crucial step toward regaining full match fitness ahead of India's two-Test series against South Africa in November. Despite being ruled out of recent series against the West Indies and Australia, Pant has resumed batting and wicketkeeping practice and is moving without discomfort. If cleared, he is likely to captain Delhi and strengthen India's Test squad, which has relied on other wicketkeepers in his absence. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has indicated that Pant's reintegration will be gradual to ensure he is fully fit before returning to international play.