IND vs NZ: Coach Gautam Gambhir confirms Rishabh Pant to keep wickets in 2nd Test

India vs New Zealand: Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Rishabh Pant is fit and will be keeping wickets in the second Test in Pune.

In Short

• Rishabh Pant is fit for second Test against NZ
• Coach Gambhir confirms Pant will keep wickets
• India to decide final playing XI on match day

India head coach Gautam Gambhir provided a significant update on Rishabh Pant's fitness ahead of the second Test against New Zealand, reassuring fans that the star wicketkeeper-batter is fit and ready to take the field in Pune. Pant had to hand over wicketkeeping duties to Dhruv Jurel in the first Test in Bengaluru after sustaining a knee injury from a ball impact, raising concerns about his fitness.

During the pre-match press conference, Gambhir said, "He's absolutely fine, he'll keep wickets tomorrow." This update puts an end to speculation surrounding Pant's availability after his knee was hit in the same area he had previously undergone surgery. The team had taken a cautious approach in Bengaluru, opting to rest Pant to avoid aggravating the injury.

Pant participated in India's training session in Pune on Tuesday, keeping wickets for a short period. However, questions remain about whether he is fully fit to handle the demands of an entire match. His return is crucial for India, as his dynamic presence behind the stumps adds a different dimension to the team's setup.

While Pant's return is confirmed, the playing XI for the second Test is yet to be finalized. Shubman Gill has recovered from his injury, but Gambhir hinted at the inclusion of all-rounder Washington Sundar in the squad, keeping New Zealand's left-handers in mind. Gambhir stated that the final decision on the playing XI would be made on match day.

India's need for a series-levelling victory might also prevent star pacer Jasprit Bumrah from being rested, as the team aims to put forth its strongest lineup. Mohammed Siraj's recent struggles, described by assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate as a "wickets-drought," could open the door for Akash Deep to be included in the team. Deep has been active in training, even participating in a long batting stint.

As India prepares for the must-win second Test, Pant's return to wicketkeeping will be pivotal for both his individual form and the team's performance. The decision on whether to rotate some players will be a balancing act, with India's busy schedule in mind.

The second Test between India and New Zealand begins tomor