India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant suffered an injury to his right foot while batting on 37(48). As he began bleeding and was unable to walk, he was taken off the field retired hurt.
With speculation swirling about him being ruled out for the remainder of the series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later clarified that Pant will bat if the team requires him. Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel will take over wicket-keeping duties.
Pant sustained the injury while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes’ 135+ kmph delivery. He missed the ball, which struck his right toe. He was seen bleeding and visibly in pain as he was taken by a vehicle from the pitch to the dressing room, and later to a hospital in Manchester.
Also read: IND vs ENG: BCCI breaks silence on Rishabh Pant's toe injury that forced him to retire hurt
Injury to Rishabh Pant Raises Doubts Over His Return,
The news of his injury quickly made headlines, and fans began to wonder whether the Indian vice-captain would return to bat. Indian Express was the first to report on the seriousness of the injury, stating that Pant could be out for at least 4–6 weeks.
“The scan report showed a fracture and he is ruled out for six weeks. The medical team is trying to see if he can come out to bat again by taking a painkiller. He still needs support to walk though, and chances of his batting look very bleak,” a source told Indian Express.
BCCI Confirms Pant Will Bat, Jurel Takes Over Keeping Duties
However, the BCCI later addressed the speculation and confirmed via their official X handle that Pant is not ruled out of the match.
“Rishabh Pant, who sustained an injury to his right foot on Day 1 of the Manchester Test, will not be performing wicket-keeping duties for the remainder of the match. Dhruv Jurel will assume the role of wicket-keeper. Despite his injury, Rishabh Pant has joined the team on Day 2 and will be available to bat as per team requirements,” BCCI posted.
Ishan Kishan Likely Backup if Pant Misses Final Test
If Pant is ruled out of the final Test, there's a high chance that India may call up Ishan Kishan as a backup. He is currently with Nottinghamshire County, playing in the County Championship. Dhruv Jurel would then be expected to automatically feature in the starting XI for the last Test.
Stay tuned for further updates on Rishabh Pant’s injury.
