Defying a serious injury in his right toe, Rishabh Pant has made himself available to bat in India's first innings of the fourth Test against England in Manchester. The vice-captain will not be able to keep wickets for the remainder of the match and Dhruv Jurel will don the gloves instead.
"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," a BCCI statement read.
Pant had gone for scans in Manchester on Wednesday (July 23, 2025). His injury was a result of an attempted reverse sweep against Chris Woakes in the 68th over of the innings. The left-hander ended up bottom-edging it on to his right foot and was in evidently severe pain immediately, with the affected spot swelling up. Pant was forced to retire hurt at 37 and had to leave the ground on a golf buggy.
Pant came out to bat after the fall of Shardul Thakur's wicket with India at 314/6 on the overcast day. With his ability to change the momentum with audacious stroke-play, Pant is a game-changer for India. After undergoing additional scans, Pant arrived at the stadium wearing a moon boot (a protective orthopaedic boot) to support his injured foot.
The severity of the injury was apparent given the blood that was seen seeping off Pant's right foot on Wednesday. The affected area had considerable swelling as well. On day one, Pant was the only one to take the attack to Jofra Archer and Co. while the other batters struck at three runs per over.
(With PTI inputs)
