Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of First Two India A Matches Against New Zealand
Rishabh Pant misses the first two India A matches against New Zealand due to a side strain, with Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement.
The BCCI has updated India A’s 15-member squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, naming Kumar Kushagra as Rishabh Pant’s replacement for the first two four-day matches.
Pant has been ruled out as he continues to recover from a side strain suffered while leading the Rest of India team in the Irani Cup 2026. He remains under the care of the BCCI Medical team.
The senior wicketkeeper-batter’s absence is a setback for India A as the team prepares for a challenging tour of New Zealand. Pant’s recovery will remain a key concern as India builds towards the upcoming Test series against the Black Caps.
Kumar Kushagra, a wicketkeeper-batter from Jharkhand, has been handed the opportunity to join the India A setup. The tour will give him valuable experience at the next level and a chance to prove his ability in four-day cricket.
The India A tour will feature three four-day matches between October 24 and November 10. These games are expected to help players prepare for New Zealand’s conditions, including the challenges of playing in a different climate and adapting to local pitches.
The tour also comes ahead of the senior Indian men’s Test series against New Zealand, which is scheduled to begin on November 19. India A’s matches will offer players an opportunity to gain match practice and build confidence before the international assignments.
Pant’s absence means India A will have to adjust its plans for the opening two matches. Meanwhile, Kushagra will look to make the most of his opportunity as the team begins its preparations for the New Zealand tour.
