Photo via The Times of India

Rishabh Pant's fitness test set for November 9; CoE informs team management

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will undergo a match simulation fitness test at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence on **November 9**, marking a critical step toward his potential inclusion in the two-Test series against New Zealand, which begins on **November 19**. Pant, recovering from a side strain injury, has resumed light cricket training and was initially slated for the test earlier this week, but the schedule was delayed due to Diwali.

If cleared, he will join the team in New Zealand immediately, with selectors emphasizing the need for his explosive batting given the high-stakes fixtures ahead. Separately, the CoE has also shared updates on the recovery status of spinners Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana, with Rana expected to be cleared by **November 10** for the India A squad’s Rising Stars Asia Cup campaign in Doha starting **November 20**.

Meanwhile, Pant has confirmed his availability for domestic assignments, including the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, though he remains focused on securing a Test spot first.

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