Kumar Kushagra Replaces Injured Pant for India A's NZ Tour Games

Rishabh Pant ruled out of first two India A matches vs New Zealand 'A' due to side strain. Kumar Kushagra replaces him. Crucial prep for WTC.

Rishabh Pant will miss the first two matches of India A's upcoming multi-day series against New Zealand 'A' due to a left side strain sustained during the Irani Cup. His availability for the third match will be determined later. Kumar Kushagra has been drafted into the squad as Pant's replacement.

This development means Dhruv Jurel, already named captain, will serve as the primary wicketkeeper for the initial two games. Kushagra, a 21-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman, has been in excellent form in first-class cricket, scoring two centuries in his last three matches, including in the Duleep Trophy final and against Australia 'A'.

The 'A' series is designed as preparation for India's Test squad, with several Test regulars participating. The series begins on October 24 in Lincoln, followed by matches in Christchurch and Lincoln on October 31 and November 7, respectively. These games are critical for India's World Test Championship campaign.

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