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Rishabh Pant Misses Day 2 at Lord’s Due to Finger Injury
India’s Vice-Captain Sidelined After Painful Blow on Day 1
Rishabh Pant, India’s vice-captain and one of the most impactful players in the ongoing England tour, was unable to take the field on Day 2 of the second Test at Lord’s due to discomfort in his left index finger. The injury, sustained on the first day while wicketkeeping, has kept him under medical supervision, forcing young Dhruv Jurel to step in as a substitute behind the stumps.
The incident occurred during the 34th over of England’s innings when Pant dived full-stretch to stop a delivery from Jasprit Bumrah that had drifted down the leg side. The ball struck the tip of his index finger, leaving him grimacing in pain. Immediate physio attention followed, and despite the application of pain-relief sprays, Pant walked off at the end of the over, visibly struggling.
Morning Practice Raises Concerns About Pant’s Availability
Pain Restricts Full Range of Movement
On the morning of Day 2, Pant arrived at the stadium and attempted light drills under the supervision of assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak. However, the discomfort was evident as he avoided using his left hand entirely. Instead, he shadow-practiced defensive shots using only his right (bottom) hand before quietly returning to the pavilion.
A BCCI official media release later in the day confirmed that Pant is being monitored by the medical team, though no scans had been conducted at the time of the statement. This likely rules out a fracture, suggesting the injury may be a bruised or jammed finger — still painful but not serious enough to rule him out for the match completely.
Can Rishabh Pant Still Bat in the Match?
Given that the injury was sustained while he was fielding, ICC regulations allow Pant to bat at his usual No. 5 position if he recovers sufficiently. This is critical for India, considering Pant has already scored two centuries and a fifty in the first four innings of this Test series.
India’s middle order has leaned heavily on Pant’s ability to counterattack under pressure. His absence could significantly affect the team’s momentum, especially on a surface that is beginning to offer variable bounce and lateral movement. Fans and management alike will be hoping that he can return to bat later in the innings.
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Dhruv Jurel Steps Up As Substitute Wicketkeeper
In Pant’s absence, young Dhruv Jurel has taken over the wicketkeeping duties and has shown excellent composure in challenging conditions. While not yet tested with spin or variable bounce, his glove work has been clean, and he has communicated well with the bowlers.
Though still early in his international journey, Jurel’s presence as a substitute has provided India with confidence in their bench strength, especially at a venue as iconic and pressure-heavy as Lord’s.
What’s Next for India and Pant?
India will continue to monitor Pant’s progress closely. If the swelling reduces and mobility returns without much pain, he could return to bat at his designated position — a major boost for India’s chances in this Test. However, if the discomfort persists, the team might have to reconsider their middle-order approach and prepare for the possibility of a reshuffled batting lineup.
Either way, India’s hopes of building a strong total rest partially on Pant’s fitness and availability with the bat.
For the latest official updates on Pant’s injury status and India’s team management comments, visit the BCCI Newsroom.
