The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is determined to expedite Rishabh Pant’s rehabilitation process with an aim to have him back in action for the 2023 World Cup. Pant’s injury initially indicated a complete absence from the 2023 season, but his faster-than-expected recovery has surprised both the BCCI and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) staff. The talented left-hander’s last appearance for India was during the tour of Bangladesh in December 2022.
According to ESPNCricinfo, Pant’s recovery progress has surpassed expectations, with minimal pain reported. He has progressed to the point where he can walk unaided and has even been captured climbing stairs in a recent video. However, Pant still requires a knee brace and will need more time before resuming skill-based training. Currently, his focus is on strengthening his lower body and enhancing mobility. S Rajnikanth, who has previously worked with Pant at the Delhi Capitals, has devised a specialized exercise regime for the wicket-keeper batsman. Rajnikanth brings a wealth of experience from his involvement with various Indian age group teams and has played a crucial role in the recoveries of prominent players like Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Murali Vijay. Additionally, NCA physio Thulasi Ram Yuvaraj has been providing continuous support to Pant since his transfer to Mumbai after a vehicle accident.
The BCCI and the NCA are highly satisfied with Rishabh Pant’s rapid progress and are determined to facilitate his complete recovery at the earliest. While Pant is still on the path to resuming skill-specific training, his promising rehabilitation has raised hopes of his potential return to the national team sooner than anticipated. The focus now remains on ensuring his rehabilitation is successful, with the ultimate goal of having Pant back on the field, in prime form, and ready to contribute to India’s campaign in the upcoming 2023 World Cup.
