Rishabh Pant's weight loss diet comprised only 5ml of THIS oil

As everyone's waiting for India's performance in the ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, speculations are at peak about any change in the game if Virat Kohli is not available due to his injury. "If the worst-case scenario arises and he is ruled out, Rohit Sharma is expected to push KL Rahul to No. 3, with Rishabh Pant stepping into the playing XI as the only available specialist batter in the squad," Zee reported.

Considered to be one of the fittest players in the team, Rishabh Pant, underwent a remarkable transformation, shedding 16 kilograms in four months to regain peak fitness.

Pant went on a calorie-deficit diet from late December 2023. This involved eating less than his body demanded, which left an energy deficit and triggered weight loss. If his body needed 1,400 calories every day, he was limited to about 1,000 calories. This was a strict diet that was hard to follow, particularly given the heavy training he had to undertake in order to return to match fitness and make his injured right leg stronger.

At the center of this success was a carefully prepared diet. One of the distinguishing features of Pant's diet was the severe restriction of extra virgin olive oil to only 5 milliliters a day. This restriction demanded innovative culinary ideas to make his food palatable. For example, his favorite chilly chicken had to be revamped to be made within this small oil limit. Goan bhindi (okra) was also one of his favorite foods during this time.

Beyond dietary measures, Pant implemented a disciplined sleep schedule to support his recovery and training. All electronic devices, including phones, tablets, and televisions, were turned off by 11 PM to ensure 8-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep. This routine was crucial for effective recovery and optimal performance in subsequent training sessions.

Complementing his diet and sleep routine, Pant engaged in rigorous training to regain match fitness. His daily regimen included up to two and a half hours of batting practice and 45-minute wicketkeeping sessions as the Indian Premier League (IPL) approached. This comprehensive approach ensured he was physically prepared for the demands of professional cricket.