India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant on Tuesday provided a positive update on his recovery, saying he is healing well from his injury and is hopeful of returning to competitive cricket at the earliest.
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Pickleball League, Pant—who was present in his role as co-owner of Mumbai Pickle Power—said he has been putting in sustained effort at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru to regain full fitness.
“My fitness is getting better day by day. I am working hard at the Centre of Excellence and I think I’m going to be out on the field soon,” Pant said.
Staying Connected to the Game During Recovery
The 27-year-old stressed the importance of remaining mentally connected to the sport during long rehabilitation phases, admitting that injuries test a player beyond just the physical aspect.
“When I am injured, one thing that always keeps me close to the game is the love for the game and the support from the people around you,” he said, highlighting how his passion for cricket and a strong support system have helped him through difficult periods.
Pant also underlined the need for constant self-improvement, regardless of experience or success, saying growth remains a non-negotiable part of being a professional cricketer.
“As a cricketer, you always have to keep adding to your game. I need to keep looking to get better in each and every aspect of my overall gameplay,” he added.
Lessons From Time Away and the Pain of Being Sidelined
Reflecting on multiple comebacks in his career, Pant said time away from the field has given him a broader perspective on both cricket and life.
“Every comeback has taught me something about life. It has taught me more gratitude, how you see things around you, and wanting to be committed to something that really makes you happy,” he said.
However, Pant admitted that the absence of top-level competition remains the toughest part of being injured.
“When I am injured, the thing I miss the most is really enjoying the game. You love the game so much, but you also enjoy it while playing it at the top level. That’s something I miss truly,” he signed off.
Injury Background
Pant has been sidelined since January 10, after sustaining a right-sided internal oblique muscle tear (side strain). The injury occurred during a practice session in Vadodara, when he was struck above the waist by a ball from a throwdown specialist.
With his recovery progressing steadily, Pant’s comments offer encouragement to Indian cricket fans eager to see the dynamic left-hander back in national colours.