As India A gears up for their two-match four-day series against South Africa A, all eyes are on Rishabh Pant, who returns to competitive cricket after a three-month injury layoff. According to India A vice-captain Sai Sudharsan, Pant looks “fitter, stronger, and more determined than ever” as he leads the side in his comeback campaign.
Pant’s Fitness Impresses Teammates
Speaking after India A’s training session at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Sudharsan praised Pant’s remarkable recovery and work ethic.
“Rishabh looks fantastic — probably even fitter now,” Sudharsan said. “Injury phases give players time to rebuild and focus on their fitness, and he’s clearly made the most of it. He looks stronger, more agile, and as fearless as ever.”
Pant, 28, sustained a foot injury during the England Test series in July and has been sidelined since. He missed the West Indies series but is now eager to use the India A fixtures to prove his readiness ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa.
Pant’s Message to the Team: Play to Win
Sudharsan also revealed that Pant has been setting the tone in training — both as a leader and motivator.
“On the first day, during our team huddle, he told everyone this is a great chance to regain red-ball rhythm,” Sudharsan shared. “He reminded us that while preparation is key, our main goal is to play to win.”
Pant’s energy and leadership have reportedly lifted the team’s morale, especially among the younger players eager to impress selectors ahead of the senior series.
India A Series: A Crucial Preparation Platform
The Tamil Nadu batter also emphasized the importance of these India A matches in building momentum for the main Test series later this month.
“These games are extremely valuable,” Sudharsan said. “We’re lucky to have them just before the main series. It gives us a chance to understand the conditions, fine-tune our approach, and head into the Tests well-prepared.”
Sudharsan himself will feature in both matches and is keen to make the most of this opportunity to cement his red-ball credentials.
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