Rishabh Pant’s comeback hit a worrying bump on Day 3 of India A’s four-day match against South Africa A, as the wicketkeeper-batter was forced to retire hurt after a painful blow on his left forearm. Pant, who recently returned from a foot fracture suffered during the England tour, is part of India’s squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa beginning November 14 in Kolkata.
As part of his preparation, he has been featuring for India A, using these innings to regain rhythm and match sharpness. Walking in early after KL Rahul’s dismissal, Pant started in trademark fashion. His first three scoring shots read like a highlight reel: a heave over mid-wicket for four, a stylish flick, and a trademark swirl that sent the ball deep into the stands.
But his free-flowing start was cut short by a barrage of hostile bowling from Tshepo Moreki. The first scare came when Pant misjudged a reverse ramp and a sharp bouncer crashed into his helmet. He lost balance and immediately underwent a mandatory concussion check.
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Although cleared to continue, trouble arrived again soon after. Moreki dug in another short ball, and Pant, early into the pull stroke, took a full blow on his left forearm. The elbow impact had him wincing, gloves off in a moment, and calling for physio assistance. Despite obvious discomfort, he tried to push on.
Rishabh Pant retires hurt after taking three blows today. First on the helmet, second on the left-hand elbow, third on the abdomen. Tough day for the fighter. ❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/kdTX8jdM8B
— Harsh 17 (@harsh03443) November 8, 2025
But Moreki’s fiery spell wasn’t done. A delivery that jagged into Pant ended up hitting him in the abdomen area, forcing the physio out for the third time in 20 minutes. With the pain in his forearm worsening, the dressing room eventually signalled for a replacement, and Pant walked off retired hurt.
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Even when India A lost nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav later, Pant did not return, with Harsh Dubey walking in instead. With the first Test just days away, India will be anxiously monitoring the condition of their first-choice wicketkeeper, hoping this setback does not derail his long-awaited red-ball return.
