Pant to undergo second test to prove fitness for New Zealand tour

Rishabh Pant is set to undergo a second fitness test at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after failing his initial assessment on Sunday. The wicketkeeper-batter must gain clearance from medical staff before traveling to New Zealand for India's upcoming tour. Pant sustained a side strain during the Irani Cup in early October but has recently resumed batting and wicketkeeping duties in training.

If cleared, Pant will join the India A squad for their third four-day match starting November 7 in Lincoln, which serves as preparation for the two-Test series beginning November 19 in Wellington. Meanwhile, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has departed for New Zealand after passing his fitness routines and is expected to feature in the same India A fixture.