Rishabh Pant trains with MS Dhoni in Ranchi ahead of Sri Lanka Test series
Rishabh Pant was pictured training alongside MS Dhoni in Ranchi as he prepares for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. The photograph from the session circulated widely online.
Pant has returned to focused preparation after the recent IPL season, with the Sri Lanka Tests viewed as an important block for India as they bid for points in the World Test Championship. Dhoni, meanwhile, remains away from competitive cricket because of injury concerns and has been reportedly considered for a mentorship role with Chennai Super Kings. The training image attracted attention given the profiles of both players and the timing ahead of the international fixtures.
The session in Ranchi featured the two names together and the resulting photograph drew rapid attention across social platforms and media outlets. Observers shared the image broadly, prompting discussion about Pant’s readiness and Dhoni’s presence at a domestic training venue. The viral circulation of the photograph highlighted public interest in preparations for the Sri Lanka series.
Pant’s work comes after a recent IPL season and is framed by the importance India places on accumulating WTC points from bilateral Test matches. The Sri Lanka series is therefore regarded as a crucial opportunity for individual players to stake a claim in the Test setup. Pant’s visible training with an experienced figure like Dhoni added to the narrative around his readiness for the coming matches.
MS Dhoni’s current status remains one of non-participation in competitive cricket, attributed to injury concerns. Reports indicate discussions about a potential off-field mentorship role with Chennai Super Kings, keeping him connected to the game even while he is not playing. The combination of Dhoni’s reduced on-field involvement and rumored mentorship responsibilities has been part of commentary surrounding his post-international career activity.
The image from Ranchi served to underscore both Pant’s preparation regime and Dhoni’s ongoing presence in Indian cricketing circles despite his absence from matches. It offered a tangible snapshot of a senior figure alongside a player expected to contribute in the Test arena. That visual moment resonated with followers of the sport and added to pre-series attention.
While the photograph captured a singular training occasion, its spread across social channels reinforced interest in how players are getting ready for the Sri Lanka Tests. India’s need for strong performances in that series, particularly with World Test Championship implications, remained central to the coverage and discussion surrounding the session in Ranchi.
The viral image has shone a spotlight on preparation ahead of the Sri Lanka Test series and has intensified focus on Pant’s readiness. With India seeking important results for the World Test Championship, the coming matches will test how training translates into performance.

