Team India faced a late concern on the eve of the opening ODI against New Zealand after wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant picked up an injury during a practice session. The first ODI of the India vs New Zealand ODI series is scheduled to be played on Sunday, January 11, at the BCA Stadium.

The incident has raised concerns among fans, especially given Pant’s recent injury history.

Pant, who last played an ODI in August 2024, has been battling fitness issues over the past year, including an injury sustained in England. He was named in the ODI squad against New Zealand as the second-choice wicketkeeper, alongside KL Rahul.

According to reports, Pant was injured while facing throwdown specialists in the nets when a delivery struck him just above the waist. Following the impact, he was seen leaving the field. However, it is worth noting that Pant had already spent around 50 minutes batting in the nets prior to the incident and appeared comfortable during that phase.

As of now, no official update has been issued by the team management regarding the severity of the injury or his availability for the first ODI. In the event that Pant is ruled out, KL Rahul is expected to take up wicketkeeping duties in the opening match.