Rishabh Pant’s recent brave batting performance with a fractured foot against England has reminded many of a legendary moment from Anil Kumble, who once bowled with a broken jaw and even dismissed Brian Lara.
Rishabh Pant’s Display of Grit
Cricket fans recently witnessed Rishabh Pant’s incredible resilience during the fourth Test against England. He suffered a fractured foot while attempting a reverse-sweep, which left him in significant pain.
Despite the clear injury, Pant returned to the crease, batting essentially on one leg. His determination helped India reach a crucial total, earning widespread praise for his bravery.
Anil Kumble’s Unforgettable Act
Pant’s heroics brought back memories of a truly iconic moment from 2002. Legendary Indian spinner Anil Kumble was hit on the jaw by a Merv Dillon bouncer during a Test match against West Indies.
He famously spat blood but, astonishingly, continued to bat for another 20 minutes. Even more remarkably, Kumble then returned to bowl in the same innings, taking to the field with a bandage wrapped around his face.
West Indies legend Viv Richards described it as “one of the bravest things I’ve seen on the field of play.” Kumble even managed to dismiss the formidable Brian Lara, etching his name further into cricketing folklore.
“She Thought I Was Joking”
Kumble later shared details about that day, revealing a conversation with his wife, Chethana. He called her to discuss surgery plans in Bangalore for his jaw.
As the call was ending, he casually mentioned, “look, I’ll go and bowl.” Kumble recounted that his wife likely thought he was joking, not taking his statement seriously.
His only thought was to get back on the field, hoping to take a few wickets and give India a chance to win the game. He was due to fly back for surgery the next day. Kumble simply told himself, “At least I can now go home with the thought that I tried my best.”
- Rishabh Pant recently batted with a fractured foot in a crucial Test match against England.
- Anil Kumble famously bowled with a broken jaw in 2002, even dismissing Brian Lara.
- Kumble’s wife initially thought he was joking about returning to bowl with such a severe injury.
- Both incidents highlight extraordinary dedication and resilience in cricket.
These instances serve as powerful reminders of the incredible resilience and commitment displayed by athletes at the highest level of sport.
