Kotak says Rishabh Pant will bat on Day 2 of Colombo Test

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on 2026-08-23 in Colombo that Rishabh Pant will be fit to bat on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka. The update followed Pant being struck on the left wrist during the first day’s play and leaving the field late in India’s innings.

India, having won the opening Test by 165 runs with Devdutt Padikkal named Player of the Match for his maiden Test century, batted first on Day 1 of the second Test. KL Rahul fell with the score on 37 and Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed at 66, after which Padikkal and Shubman Gill compiled a 120-run partnership. Gill left after reaching a fifty and Padikkal brought up his second Test century as India closed the day on 300/5.

Pant was struck on his left wrist by a short delivery from Lahiru Kumara in the 58th over; the team physio applied an ice pack but Pant walked off and did not continue. Ravindra Jadeja went in to bat as Pant left the field. The incident prompted concern given Pant’s recent absence from the field.

Speaking at the press conference after the day’s play, Sitanshu Kotak allayed concerns about the wicketkeeper-batter’s condition and confirmed his availability. Kotak said: “Rishabh Pant will be fine to bat tomorrow.” The batting coach’s statement was presented to the media following the close of play.

Supporters expressed dismay at Pant’s exit, with coverage noting he has had a long history of battling injuries. Reports in the build-up to Day 2 described Pant as a central figure in India’s batting across conditions and credited him with significant contributions to the team’s victories.

With Kotak’s confirmation, Pant is expected to resume his innings on the second day and India will aim to add to the 300/5 total to apply pressure on Sri Lanka and seek a decisive position in the match.