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Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has shared an optimistic injury update on wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who is hopeful to return for the upcoming Test against New Zealand in Pune, starting October 24. Pant sustained a left knee injury during Day 2 of the ongoing Test match on October 17, while attempting to collect a delivery in the 37th over of New Zealand's innings.

Despite showing initial signs of discomfort and receiving on-field treatment, Pant was unable to continue and was carried off, with Dhruv Jurel stepping in as the substitute wicketkeeper. Although Pant made a notable contribution with the bat, scoring 99 runs, he did not field in New Zealand's second innings as Jurel continued behind the stumps.

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Unfortunately for Pant, his heroics were in vain, as New Zealand clinched the match by 8 wickets. In a pre-match press conference on October 22, ten Doeschate reassured that the entire team, including the pacers, is in good shape and well-rested ahead of the crucial Test.

Talking about Pant, ten Doeschate said. "I think Rohit [Sharma] touched on it the other day. He was having a little bit of discomfort at the end range of his movement with the knee. But fingers crossed he'll be good to keep in this Test as well." 

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On the other hand Shubman Gill had missed the Bengaluru Test with neck stiffness. "He's batted last week in Bangalore, he had a few nets," ten Doeschate said of Gill. "He's got a little bit of discomfort, but I'll think he will be good to go for the Test." ten Doeschate added. 

Since returning to the Test team, Pant has been prolific with the bat and behind the stumps. The wicketkeeper scored a hundred in the series against Bangladesh and followed it up with his effort in Bengaluru.