Fri Oct 18 14:04:10 UTC 2024: ## Pant Ready to Battle Despite Injury: India Fight Back in Bangalore Test
**Bangalore, India:** Rishabh Pant, despite a recent injury, is poised to return to the crease for India in the first Test against New Zealand. The wicketkeeper-batter was forced off the field on day two of the match due to pain in his surgically repaired knee. However, Pant was seen practicing in the dressing room and is expected to bat on day four of the match.
India, having been bowled out for a paltry 46 runs in their first innings, staged a remarkable comeback on day three, reaching 231/3 at stumps. Virat Kohli, who scored a vital 70 runs, and Sarfaraz Khan, who remains unbeaten on 70, led the fightback.
Pant was slated to bat at number five but was unable to take the crease after Kohli’s dismissal as stumps were called. He is expected to resume his innings on Saturday, with no concerns over his batting ability.
Rohit Sharma’s half-century (52 runs) further strengthened India’s position as they look to set a competitive total for New Zealand. With Pant’s return, India will be looking to capitalize on their resurgence and secure a crucial win in the series opener.
First Piper 