The must-win Manchester Test between India and England saw a drastic moment late on Day 1 when Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt after suffering a toe injury. The incident occurred in the 68th over of India’s innings when Pant, batting on 37, attempted an unorthodox reverse scoop off Chris Woakes. However, the ball struck his right foot flush on the toe after taking an inside edge. It grimaced in pain and was visibly distraught.
Pant was in obviously in agony, collapsing to the ground immediately as the physio rushed in. His boot had swollen and there was a bloodied cut. It looked serious from the get-go. He was unable to walk without support and was eventually taken off the field in a medical cart. The timing of the injury was especially unfortunate for India, who were looking to build on a solid foundation laid by the top order. Both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan scored fifties.
Is Rishabh Pant out of IND vs ENG series?
The 26-year-old’s absence left India a batter short in the ongoing Test, with Ravindra Jadeja replacing him at the crease. It was after Pant was retired hurt. Now, a day later, there’s confirmation that Pant has suffered a fracture in the toe and has been ruled out of the series, requiring six weeks of rest.
Despite this, the Indian team management is reportedly exploring the possibility of him returning to bat in the second innings by taking a painkiller. However, that scenario appears extremely unlikely at the moment. India wouldn’t risk Pant, who is irreplaceable in the Test format for the country.
Meanwhile, after the match started on Day 2 he did join the team. BCCI in a release mentioned, that Pant could bat if needed. In a tweet the board said, “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.”
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