New Delhi: Dhruv Jurel has been confirmed as the replacement for Rishabh Pant in India’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series.
Pant’s injury involves a left-side strain with inflammation near the lower rib, with no fracture detected. He joins as a reserve wicketkeeper-batter, providing cover behind the stumps. The Board of Control for Cricket in India also released the updated squad list for the series.
This follows medical details released about Pant’s injury. Pant’s current setback stems from a left-side strain with inflammation near the lower left rib, without any fracture confirmed. Another report attributes his discomfort to back spasms, adding complexity to the diagnosis.
Meanwhile, Jurel’s skills offer strategic benefits for the ODI side. Jurel’s calm temperament and sharp glovework have drawn comparisons to MS Dhoni, suggesting a reliable presence behind the stumps.
His adaptability, described by coaches as a willingness to take on unexpected roles, can help India adjust quickly to match situations. Past performances under difficult conditions, including tidy work despite erratic ball movement, indicate he can maintain composure and minimise errors.
The BCCI has placed him under its medical team’s care, but no return date has been issued.
The uncertainty extends to the Test squad announcement. The India Test squad for the November series in New Zealand has not yet been announced. Selectors are holding off until they receive final fitness updates on Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana and Rishabh Pant. Krishna and Pant have been given three-week recovery timelines by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.
Krishna and Rana are due for return-to-play tests on October 24 or 26, after which the Test squad is likely to be named. Pant’s clearance is expected within 10 to 15 days, depending on his recovery progress.
