New Delhi, February 5: Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has reported positive progress in his recovery from a side strain at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. He expressed optimism about making a return to competitive cricket soon.
Pant sustained the injury during a practice session just a day before the ODI series against New Zealand in Vadodara, when a throwdown specialist’s delivery struck him above the waist.
Speaking during the World Pickleball League, Pant stated, “My fitness is improving day by day. I am working hard at the Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. I believe I will be back on the field soon.”
He emphasized the importance of staying connected to the sport during his lengthy rehabilitation, crediting his love for cricket and his support network for helping him through the recovery process.
“When I get injured, one thing that keeps me close to the game is my love for it and the support from those around me. As a cricketer, you must always strive to improve in some way. I need to keep working on every aspect of my overall gameplay,” he added.
Pant further noted that his repeated comebacks from injury have shaped his perspective on cricket and life. However, he acknowledged that staying away from top-level competition is the most challenging aspect.
“Every comeback has taught me something about life. It has instilled in me a greater sense of gratitude. How do you view the things around you? Being committed to something that truly makes you happy. When I am injured, what I miss the most is genuinely enjoying the game. You love the sport, but you also enjoy playing at the top level. That’s something I truly miss,” he concluded.