Rishabh PantCricket InjuriesCricket Match Reportsengland cricketEngland Cricket Team NewsIndia national cricket team newsIndia vs EnglandIndian Cricket NewsIndian Cricket PlayersIndian Cricket TeamIndian Cricket UpdatesIndian CricketersInternational MatchesLatest Cricket UpdatesPlayer InjuriesTestTest CricketTest Cricket UpdatesTest Match DelaysTest Match Updates
Rishabh Pant Forced to Retire Hurt After Painful Foot Injury on Day 1 of 4th Test vs England
India faced a major setback on Day 1 of the fourth Test against England as vice-captain Rishabh Pant was forced off the field due to a foot injury during his innings. The incident occurred at a critical juncture when Pant was beginning to anchor India’s innings, and his sudden exit has now raised concerns about his availability for the remainder of the match.
What Happened to Rishabh Pant?
The injury took place in the 68th over of India’s first innings when Pant was struck on the side of his right foot by a full delivery from England seamer Chris Woakes. Pant, attempting a premeditated reverse sweep, missed the shot and was hit flush on his boot. Though England appealed for an LBW and even reviewed the decision, replays confirmed a faint inside edge, ruling Pant not out.
However, even before the decision came through, Pant was seen in significant distress. He removed his gloves and was visibly hobbling, unable to stand steadily. The on-field physio rushed in and removed his pads, socks, and shoe to assess the damage.
Blood, Swelling, and Immediate Exit
Broadcast visuals showed swelling and a visible spot of blood on Pant’s right foot, indicating a painful blow. With Pant unable to bear weight on the injured leg, India’s support staff signaled for a stretcher buggy. The southpaw was eventually wheeled off the field in a cart, marking an abrupt end to his innings at 37 off 48 balls.
Sai Sudharsan Reflects on the Incident
India’s top-scorer of the day, Sai Sudharsan, who shared a 72-run partnership with Pant, expressed concern over the incident.
“He was in a lot of pain definitely, but they’ve gone for scans. We’ll get to know overnight, probably get the information tomorrow,” said Sudharsan during the post-day interaction.
Sudharsan also admitted that Pant’s absence would be a huge blow, especially considering his aggressive form and valuable contribution at the crease.
“Obviously, it will be a big miss if he’s ruled out because he was batting really well. We’ll try to bat long and negotiate that loss with the help of all-rounders inside.”
Injury Concerns Continue to Haunt Team India
Pant’s foot injury comes amid a growing list of injury troubles for Team India during the England tour. Fast bowlers Akash Deep (groin) and Arshdeep Singh (finger) were already ruled out of the fourth Test, paving the way for Anshul Kamboj’s Test debut. Notably, Pant had only recently recovered from a finger injury sustained during the Lord’s Test, where he couldn’t take up wicketkeeping duties.
At the time of Pant’s exit, India were 212/3, having been put to bat by England. The team ended the day at 264/4, with hopes now resting on the remaining batters to build a competitive total.
What’s Next for Pant and Team India?
As per the Indian team management, Rishabh Pant was sent for scans to assess the extent of the damage. An update on his availability is expected on the morning of Day 2. His injury could significantly impact India’s batting depth and wicketkeeping options.
If ruled out, India will likely need to reshuffle the batting order and could be forced to rely on makeshift keeping options or replacements for the next match.
Related Reading:
India vs England Test Series – Full Coverage and Updates
More on Rishabh Pant’s Injury Status:
Rishabh Pant Injury Scans
