Siraj Shines with Rohit’s Batting Advice; Pant Faces Injury Concerns

Former Indian captain Rohit Sharma provided batting guidance to Mohammed Siraj, and Rishabh Pant required brief medical attention after a minor injury during a net practice session. These activities were part of India’s final preparations for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, set to commence in Vadodara on Sunday.

Rohit, observing from outside the nets, shared valuable tips with Siraj, who struggled to connect while attempting an aggressive shot. Siraj’s focus was primarily on batting during India’s optional training session on Saturday, attended by several team members.

India’s vice-captain, Shreyas Iyer, recently led Mumbai in a narrow one-run defeat against Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. During practice, he batted alongside KL Rahul, with Pant and Ravindra Jadeja also utilizing the nets for some batting practice.

Rishabh Pant caused concern when he was hit by a ball just above his waist during batting practice against Indian throwdown specialists. He was promptly attended to by the team’s support staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir. After receiving initial treatment, Pant left the field at the BCA Stadium’s Ground B. Meanwhile, India captain Shubman Gill engaged in a lengthy discussion with the chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar.

The series against a rejuvenated New Zealand team will begin at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium, marking the venue’s debut as a host for men’s international cricket. The second ODI is scheduled for January 14 at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium, and the series will conclude with the third ODI at Holkar Stadium in Indore.

Published on January 10, 2026.