India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is close to making his much-awaited return to competitive cricket, representing Delhi in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy later this month.
His comeback, however, depends on medical clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Pant, who has been training at the CoE since mid-September, is expected to undergo another medical assessment on his right foot next week.
The 28-year-old has been working hard during his rehabilitation and is showing strong signs of readiness to return to the field. His determination and consistent progress have impressed the medical team overseeing his recovery.
Medical Progress and Possible Comeback Date
Earlier in October, Rishabh Pant began his batting sessions in the nets at the CoE, signaling a positive step in his recovery. Pant’s medical clearance is the final step before he can officially rejoin competitive cricket.
The Delhi team management is optimistic but remains cautious, preferring that he returns only when he is fully match-ready. His return could boost Delhi’s Ranji Trophy campaign and potentially open the door for his national comeback.
Sources Said :
“As per the current progression, Pant could be cleared very soon. If he’s declared fully fit by the medical team, then he might be available for the two Ranji Trophy matches in Delhi from October 25.”
“Considering the one against Hyderabad begins on October 15, which is too tight for testing match fitness. When he links up with the Delhi team and turns out for them, it all depends on the all-important clearance.”
Journey of Recovery and Road Ahead
Pant’s injury occurred during the fourth Test against England in Manchester in late July when he fractured the metatarsal in his right foot after inside-edging a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. He was forced to retire hurt on 37, and hospital scans confirmed the fracture.
Displaying remarkable grit, Pant returned the next day—despite wearing a moonboot—and scored 54 runs. The extended recovery period caused him to miss the two-Test series against the West Indies and the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia starting October 19.
If Pant performs well in the Ranji Trophy matches against Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, he is expected to be included in India’s squad for the two-Test series against South Africa.
It is beginning on November 14 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. As India’s Test vice-captain, Pant had an impressive record in England, scoring 479 runs in seven innings at an average of 68.42, including two brilliant centuries at Headingley, Leeds.
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