India, Nov. 8 -- Rishabh Pant's comeback trail took an uneasy turn on Saturday as the India A captain retired hurt after a couple of blows to the helmet and left wrist during the second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bengaluru.

The scare comes just days after Pant was named vice-captain in India's 15-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, raising immediate questions over his fitness with the first Test in Kolkata starting on November 14.

Resuming their second innings on 78 for 3, India A lost an early wicket before Pant arrived to consolidate the lead. During his stay, he was struck several times by the South Africa A attack.

Pant was hit on the helmet while attempting an attacking stroke earlier...