Rishabh Pant Set for Ranji Trophy Return in October, Eyes South Africa Tests

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is likely to make his long-awaited return to competitive cricket in the second round of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, beginning October 25. The move could set the stage for his comeback to the national Test side in time for the two-match home series against South Africa starting November 14.

Pant, who suffered a fractured right foot during the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford in July, is currently in the final phase of his rehabilitation. He is scheduled to undergo a fitness assessment later this week at the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.

The 27-year-old’s recovery has progressed well in recent weeks. His foot cast was removed over three weeks ago, and he is reportedly moving without discomfort. As part of his rehab, Pant has been focusing on mobility and strengthening exercises and has resumed batting in the nets.

Return Timeline & Delhi Duties

Should he clear the upcoming fitness test, Pant is expected to join the Delhi Ranji Trophy squad. However, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) considers him "slightly doubtful" for the team’s opening fixture on October 15 against Hyderabad. If he misses the first round, he is expected to be available from the second round onward.

Pant is also likely to captain Delhi during his period of availability in the domestic season. In his absence, Ayush Badoni, his IPL teammate at Lucknow Super Giants, will lead the side.

Injury Recap

Pant’s injury occurred in late July when he reverse-swept Chris Woakes onto his own foot during the fourth Test against England. Though he returned to bat the next day, he was unable to keep wicket and later scans confirmed a fracture. Despite the setback, Pant finished the England series with an impressive 479 runs in four matches, including two centuries and three fifties.

Current National Team Status

With Pant sidelined, India opted for Dhruv Jurel and N Jagadeesan as wicketkeeping options for the ongoing Test series against West Indies. Pant also missed selection for the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, starting October 19, due to not receiving a "return to play" clearance from the CoE.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously hinted at Pant's possible return during the South Africa Tests while announcing the squad for the West Indies series last month in Dubai.

Looking Ahead

If all goes well over the next few weeks, Rishabh Pant could once again don the Indian whites next month—potentially resuming his role as a key member of India’s Test setup and strengthening the middle order ahead of a crucial season.