With just a month remaining until the start of the Cricket Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 9th, Team India has suffered a setback.
Sports News: Disappointing news for Team India fans. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the Asia Cup 2025 due to injury. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the UAE from September 9th to September 28th. Pant's absence is considered a major blow to Team India's batting lineup and middle-order strategy.
Injury Sustained in England Test the Reason
Rishabh Pant sustained an injury during the fourth Test match against England. A quick delivery from Chris Woakes struck his right foot on the boot as he attempted a reverse shot. Following the blow, he immediately left the field. Scans revealed a fracture in his toe. Despite this, Pant scored a half-century in the same match, playing a crucial innings for the team, but he was unable to participate in the final, i.e., the fifth Test. According to medical reports, it will take him approximately 6 weeks to fully recover.
Ruled Out of Asia Cup as Well as West Indies Series
According to a report by the Times of India, Pant will not only miss the Asia Cup 2025 but also the subsequent West Indies Test series. This series will be played in India starting October 2nd, featuring 2 Test matches. A BCCI source stated that Pant's recovery is being closely monitored, but he will not be rushed back onto the field. The team management and medical staff want him to return fully fit to prevent the risk of re-injury.
Team India's Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
- September 10: India vs UAE (Dubai)
- September 14: India vs Pakistan (Dubai)
- September 19: India vs Oman (Abu Dhabi)
India will play three matches in the group stage, with the high-voltage match against Pakistan being the most anticipated. In Pant's absence, the Indian team will have to rely on a new wicketkeeping option, with Ishan Kishan or KL Rahul being the likely candidates.
Possible Return on Australia Tour
According to sources, Pant's potential return to international cricket could be on the Australia tour, which will commence after the West Indies series. During this tour, India will play 3 ODIs and 5 T20 matches. If Pant is not fit by then, his return could be in the South Africa Test series scheduled for December.
Rishabh Pant is known for his aggressive batting, quick wicketkeeping, and ability to turn the game around. His absence from the team could lead to a major change in India's strategy, especially in a tournament where every match is played with knockout-like pressure.
