Goa, Oct. 12 -- India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the first two matches of India A's upcoming multi-day series against New Zealand A following an injury sustained during the Irani Cup. Kumar Kushagra has been named as his replacement for the opening two fixtures, while a decision on Pant's participation in the third match will be made later.

Pant was initially included in the India A squad subject to fitness clearance. However, the left-side strain he suffered while captaining Rest of India in the Irani Cup has affected his availability for the upcoming red-ball assignment.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Pant remains under the supervision of its medical team and is recovering w...