Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been sidelined for six weeks after sustaining a fractured toe during the ongoing Manchester Test against England.
Major Blow for Team India
In a significant setback for the Indian Test squad, star wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has been advised six weeks of rest following a toe fracture. The injury occurred on the first day of the Manchester Test, forcing him to retire hurt from India’s innings.
The incident took place in the 68th over when Pant, batting on 37, attempted a pre-determined reverse sweep against pacer Chris Woakes. The ball took an inside edge before hitting his right boot, causing immediate and severe pain.
On-Field Drama and Immediate Aftermath
Pant was visibly wincing and grimacing in pain, collapsing onto the ground as the team physio rushed to his aid. His right foot showed considerable swelling, along with a bloodied cut.
He instantly began to hobble, removed his gloves, and called for medical attention. Due to the severity of the injury, Pant was eventually carted off the field, a worrying sign for players and fans alike.
Medical Report Confirms Fracture
A source within the BCCI confirmed that scan reports revealed a fracture, ruling Pant out for six weeks. This means he will miss the crucial fifth and final Test match against England, scheduled from July 31 to August 4 at The Oval.
While the Indian team management explored the possibility of Pant batting again with pain medication, chances looked bleak as he required support even to walk. Following this update, the selection committee is expected to add Ishan Kishan to the squad ahead of the fifth Test as a replacement.
Expert Views on the Injury
Former cricketers Ricky Ponting and Michael Atherton expressed their concerns about the injury’s severity. Ponting remarked on Sky Sports, “He hardly put his foot on the ground. The immediate swelling was a worry for me. I’ve had a metatarsal injury myself, and they’re small, fragile bones. The fact he couldn’t put any weight on it, it doesn’t look good at all.”
Michael Atherton, a former England captain, highlighted the potential impact on the match. He noted, “If he is out of the game…if he’s out of the series, then that’s a massive blow to India and puts the day in a different light. That 264 for four becomes 264 for five, and with that new ball due, there is a potential to knock India over reasonably swiftly tomorrow.”
India’s Growing Injury Woes
Pant’s injury adds to India’s growing list of unavailable players. All-rounder Nitesh Kumar Reddy is already out of the series with a knee injury, while fast bowlers Akash Deep (groin) and Arshdeep Singh (thumb) were not available for the fourth Test. This compounds the challenges for the Indian team management.
It’s also worth noting that Pant had previously injured his left index finger while keeping during the third Test at Lord’s.
- Rishabh Pant has a fractured toe and is out for six weeks.
- He will miss the upcoming fifth Test against England.
- Ishan Kishan is expected to be named as his replacement.
- The injury exacerbates India’s ongoing injury crisis with several key players already sidelined.
The team will now have to re-strategize without one of their key batsmen and wicketkeepers as they look to finish the series strongly.
