India’s injury concerns continued to mount during the crucial Manchester Test, as wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt on Day 1. The left-hander sustained a painful blow to his right foot while batting, further adding to the team’s already lengthy injury list.
His injury came after all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and fast bowler Akash Deep had already been ruled out before the match began.
Pant’s injury occurred during the 68th over of the Indian innings while attempting a reverse sweep off a full-length delivery bowled by England’s Chris Woakes.
The ball took an unfortunate deflection and struck Pant’s right foot. Despite receiving immediate medical attention from the team physio, he was unable to continue and had to leave the field.
At the time, Pant had scored a quickfire 37 off just 48 deliveries, hitting two boundaries and a six, and was looking in excellent touch.
The absence of Reddy and Akash Deep had already forced India into making adjustments to their playing XI for this vital fourth Test of the ICC World Test Championship series.
The unavailability of key players has tested the team’s depth and resilience at a time when every match holds significant value.
Despite these setbacks, India made a solid start after being asked to bat first by England. Openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal laid a strong platform with a 94-run opening stand.
However, the momentum shifted as England’s bowlers responded with discipline and precision in the second and third sessions, gradually picking up important wickets.
India came into this Test trailing 2-1 in the five-match series, making the Manchester clash a must-win to stay in contention for the series and secure valuable World Test Championship points.
Pant’s injury, especially given his dual role as a top-order batter and the team’s primary wicketkeeper, could significantly affect India’s chances in the match and possibly the remainder of the series.
The team and fans alike now await further updates on Pant’s condition, with hopes that his injury is not severe. His presence on the field remains vital for India’s campaign in this high-stakes encounter against England.