Rishabh Pant's return to domestic cricket sparks debate, deets inside

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made a spirited return to competitive cricket on Thursday, ending a three-month injury layoff with a striking statement wearing Virat Kohli’s legendary No. 18 jersey. Leading India A against South Africa A at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Pant’s comeback was as eye-catching as it was symbolic.

The Comeback After Setback

Pant’s return marks an important step in his recovery from a foot injury sustained during the fourth Test against England in July. The setback ruled him out of the Asia Cup and the Test series against the West Indies. After weeks of intense rehabilitation and training at the NCA, Pant’s inclusion in the India A squad is seen as a major step toward reclaiming his spot in the national Test team ahead of the South Africa series next month.

Also Read: Ind vs Eng 4th Test: Sachin Tendulkar hails Rishabh Pant's heroic act

The Jersey That Sparked a Buzz

While Pant’s performance drew praise, it was his choice of jersey number that stole the spotlight. Donning Kohli’s iconic No. 18, a number etched in Indian cricket history, sent social media into overdrive. Fans debated whether Pant had swapped his usual No. 17 or if it was a casual choice.

BCCI Clarifies the Controversy

Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance of another player wearing No. 18 since Kohli’s Test retirement. The BCCI later clarified that India A players are free to choose any available number since those matches don’t use personalised jerseys.

Regardless of the number on his back, Pant’s return symbolises resilience and renewal. His comeback, marked by grit and symbolism, signals that India’s star wicketkeeper-batter is ready to shine once again with or without the iconic 18.