Rishabh Pant could return to action earlier than expected: Reports

India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant met with a horrific car accident in December last year, and as a result, he faces significant time on the sidelines. It was reported that he had undergone a few surgeries and is now in a state where he can walk without crutches.

He has been a massive miss for India and the Delhi Capitals (DC) team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, in a piece of positive news, Pant who was expected to miss the whole year could be back in action sooner than expected. 

"Let's make it clear that Pant never had multiple surgeries, as was speculated. There was much anxiety over another surgery. He was monitored every fortnight. Fortunately, his progress has been better than expected. This is a big boost for him. It could mean his comeback can happen a lot earlier than what was first expected,” a BCCI official was quoted by TOI.

"He is in good spirits. He can now walk considerably longer without a crutch. The focus of his rehab is now largely on strengthening. He should be in the back-to-play phase training soon," the official further added.

Whether or not Pant recovers in time for the ODI World Cup in October-November this year is to be seen. In his absence, KS Bharat has taken over as the wicketkeeper in Tests, while KL Rahul, also nursing an injury donned the gloves in the 50-over format.