In a concerning development for the Indian cricket team, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the team's training session due to a viral fever, ahead of India's match against Pakistan.
This news was confirmed by Pant's Indian teammate Shubman Gill, who revealed that Rishabh Pant was feeling unwell and was unable to participate in the team's practice.
"Rishabh Pant is down with viral fever and that's why he was not in training today. The conversations I have had with the players are that I go and talk to players that are feeling a little low - who are not playing regularly" said Shubman Gill, who spoke to the media before the Pakistan match.
India vs Pakistan: Arch-Rivals Set to Clash in Champions Trophy Thriller
The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as India and Pakistan prepare to face off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 23. This highly anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a neutral venue chosen due to India's security concerns about playing in Pakistan.
Both teams have been rigorously preparing for this marquee clash. India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, boasts a formidable batting lineup, including stalwarts like Virat Kohli and emerging talents such as Shubman Gill. However, the team faces a significant setback with the absence of their star fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, due to injury.
On the other hand, Pakistan, captained by Mohammad Rizwan, enters the tournament with the advantage of familiarity with local conditions, even though the match is in Dubai. Their batting lineup features the prolific Babar Azam and the experienced Saud Shakeel. The bowling department, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, aims to exploit any weaknesses.