India's wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant suffered a blow to his left knee during practice at the ICC Academy in Dubai, briefly raising concerns about his fitness ahead of India's Champions Trophy campaign, according to a Times of India report. Incident details The report claims that Pant, positioned near the nets where Hardik Pandya was batting, was struck by a powerful slash from the all-rounder. The impact reportedly caused immediate discomfort to the same knee that had sustained serious injury in his car accident two years ago. Immediate response Medical staff promptly attended to Pant, applying ice to the affected area. Despite initial concerns, the wicketkeeper-batsman reportedly showed resilience, getting back on his feet after treatment. The report mentions that Pandya immediately checked on his teammate, with the two sharing a supportive embrace before Pant's knee was strapped. Quick recovery Demonstrating characteristic determination, Pant allegedly resumed training shortly after the incident. According to the report, he was seen sharing light moments with teammate Axar Patel before heading to the nets, though with visible discomfort while moving. Tournament context India's Champions Trophy campaign begins on February 20 against Bangladesh, followed by a high-stakes encounter with Pakistan on February 23. Their final Group A fixture is scheduled against New Zealand on March 2. Historical perspective India enters the tournament as two-time champions, having shared the trophy with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and claiming outright victory in 2013 under MS Dhoni's leadership. Their last final appearance in 2017 ended in defeat to Pakistan. Tournament Schedule India's Group A Fixtures:
vs Bangladesh: February 20
vs Pakistan: February 23
vs New Zealand: March 2Original Article