In a recent development, India’s injured stars will be available for the upcoming IND vs NZ second Test decider, scheduled to begin on October 24.

The duo of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are now declared fit to play with two days left for the match, India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed.

Gill was sidelined late in the first Test in Bengaluru due to neck stiffness.

Pant, on the other hand, featured in the match but took a hit while keeping wicket when he attempted to hit Kiwi opener Devon Conway. He was unable to pick up the ball, was hit and was forced to leave the field immediately.

The dynamic left-hander did not keep any wickets for the rest of the match, with Dhruv Jurel taking over the responsibilities. However, Pant managed to come out to bat and scored a stellar 99 in the second innings.

It is now expected that Pant can retain wickets in the next game.

Injured stars to return for IND vs NZ second Test

Giving an update on the return of the Indian stars, Ryan ten Doeschate said:

“Rishabh is pretty good. i think rohit [Sharma] I played it the other day. He had a little discomfort at the end of his movement with his knee. But let’s keep our fingers crossed that it will be good to keep him in this test as well.”

About Gill, ten Doeschate said: “He batted last week in Bengaluru, had some nets. He has a little discomfort, but I think he will be ready for the test.”

ALSO READ: ‘Haven’t heard anything’: Star India pacer kept in the dark about his retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction

The Men in Blue have already conceded the first match of the IND vs NZ series after a dismal batting performance in the first innings. With the series on the line, Rohit Sharma and company have a task ahead of them as they prepare for the decider clash in Pune.

For more updates, follow Cricxtasy on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Telegram and YouTube.