Star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out of the fifth and final Test against England due to a fractured right foot, with N Jagadeesan named as his replacement.
Pant Sidelined for Final Test
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Sunday that Rishabh Pant will miss the decisive fifth Test at the Oval. This unfortunate news comes after he sustained a foot injury during the fourth Test in Manchester.
The BCCI statement specified that Pant suffered a fracture to his right foot. The medical team will closely monitor his recovery, wishing him a swift return to the field. Following this setback, the Men’s Selection Committee promptly announced Narayan Jagadeesan as his replacement for the upcoming match.
How the Injury Occurred
Pant’s injury took place on Day 1 of the fourth Test while he was attempting a reverse sweep. The impact led to a toe fracture, forcing him to retire hurt from his innings initially.
Despite the severe pain and visible discomfort, Pant showcased incredible grit. He remarkably returned to bat, almost on one foot, managing to score a commendable 54 runs off 75 balls, a testament to his fighting spirit.
A Gritty Performance Amidst Pain
Initially advised six weeks of rest, Pant’s determination saw him return to the dressing room on Day 2 in full gear. He even hobbled out to the crease after Shardul Thakur’s dismissal, ready to bat if needed.
Fortunately, his services were not required on Day 5, thanks to heroic centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, which ultimately secured a hard-fought draw for India in the fourth Test.
Series Status and Fifth Test Anticipation
The fourth Test concluded in a dramatic stalemate, largely due to magnificent hundreds from Jadeja (107 not out) and Sundar (101 not out). Shubman Gill also played a crucial role with his own century (103), while KL Rahul contributed a doughty 90.
Gill’s century was his fourth of the series, making him the first Asian batter to cross 700 runs in a Test series played in England. Despite India’s resilient draw, England still holds a 2-1 lead heading into the final Test.
- Rishabh Pant ruled out of the 5th Test due to a fractured right foot.
- N Jagadeesan has been named as Pant’s replacement.
- Pant sustained the injury attempting a reverse sweep in the 4th Test.
- He bravely continued to bat despite the injury, scoring 54 runs.
- The 4th Test ended in a draw, with India securing crucial centuries from Jadeja, Sundar, and Gill.
- England currently leads the series 2-1.
The fifth and final Test of the series is set to commence on July 31, 2025, at Kennington Oval in London, with India looking to draw the series despite Pant’s absence.
