Watch: Rishabh Pant extends heartfelt Diwali wishes to cricket fans amid his omission from the NZ-A Test series

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant extended heartfelt Diwali wishes to cricket fans on Sunday. He shared a special message on social media, wishing everyone happiness, good health and prosperity on the occasion of the festival of lights.

Meanwhile, Pant is set to miss the third unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A, scheduled to begin in Lincoln on Saturday. According to ESPNcricinfo, the wicketkeeper-batter is still recovering from a side strain. His absence from the fixture has also raised questions about his availability for the upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, which begins on November 19.

Despite missing the match, Pant took time to share festive greetings with his fans. His Diwali message has reached cricket followers as he continues his recovery. 

Watch Rishabh Pant's Diwali wishes here:

What did Rishabh Pant say in his Diwali message to fans?

Rishabh Pant shared a video message on X to wish his fans on Diwali. In the video, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter said, “Wishing you a very happy Diwali. Hope you have a great year and enjoy the festival with loved ones and family.” He also wished everyone happiness and a wonderful year ahead.

Apart from Pant, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen and several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises also extended Diwali wishes to fans. They shared festive messages highlighting love, happiness and togetherness.

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The five-day Diwali celebrations began with Dhanteras on November 6, followed by Choti Diwali on November 7. The main Diwali festival and Lakshmi Puja will take place on November 8, followed by Govardhan Puja on November 9 and Bhai Dooj on November 10.

Why is Rishabh Pant not in the NZ-A Test series squad?

Rishabh Pant is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru as he recovers from a side strain. Due to the injury, he is set to miss the third unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A. Meanwhile, India's Test specialists Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to feature in the match as part of their preparations for the upcoming Test series.

Pant's absence has also raised questions about his availability for the two-Test series against New Zealand, which begins on November 19 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. His participation in the series remains uncertain as he continues his recovery. T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma has joined the India A squad in Lincoln as Pant's replacement.

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Tilak Varma brings an impressive first-class record to the squad. In 25 matches and 38 innings, he has scored 1,828 runs at an average of 57.12, including eight centuries and seven half-centuries. His ability to score big runs makes him a valuable addition to the India A side ahead of the final match of the series.

Rishabh Pant’s road back: Fitness, form and his place in India’s Test plans

Rishabh Pant is currently focused on regaining full fitness after suffering a side strain. He is undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His recovery will be important as India prepare for their upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, which begins on November 19.

Pant’s form and experience make him an important part of India’s Test plans. He has played several match-winning innings for the team and is known for his attacking batting style. However, his immediate priority will be to recover fully and return to competitive cricket without rushing the process.

India will closely monitor Pant’s fitness before making a decision on his availability for the New Zealand series. If he recovers in time, his return will strengthen the team’s batting and wicketkeeping options. Until then, the team management may consider other players, including Tilak Varma, as possible options.