Rishabh Pant, India's prominent wicketkeeper-batter, has been officially ruled out of the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. The unfortunate development occurred after Pant sustained a side strain (oblique muscle tear) during a net practice session in Vadodara on Saturday, January 10, 2026, just a day before the series opener. He was reportedly hit just above his waist by a delivery from a throwdown specialist, experiencing immediate discomfort and pain. The Indian team's support staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir, attended to him on the field. Following the incident, Pant underwent immediate MRI scans. The BCCI medical team, after detailed discussions, confirmed the diagnosis of a side strain, necessitating his withdrawal from the series. In a swift move by the Men's Selection Committee, uncapped Dhruv Jurel has been named as Rishabh Pant's replacement in the ODI squad. Jurel, who has been in impressive form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, has already joined the Indian squad. This injury marks another setback for Pant, who was looking to cement his place in the ODI setup. The series against New Zealand commenced on Sunday, January 11, 2026.