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Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of Oval Test with Foot Fracture, Jagadeesan Named Replacement
India’s Injury Setback Ahead of Fifth Test at The Oval
India suffered a major blow ahead of the series-deciding fifth Test against England at The Oval as star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out due to a fracture in his right foot. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the news, adding that Tamil Nadu’s N Jagadeesan will replace him in the squad.
Pant, who sustained the injury during the Manchester Test, displayed extraordinary courage by returning to bat and scoring a half-century despite the fracture. His determination and resilience have earned widespread admiration from the cricketing fraternity and fans alike.
Pant’s Grit and Heroism: Batting with a Fractured Foot
Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The injury occurred on Day 2 of the fourth Test when Pant attempted a scoop shot against Chris Woakes and was struck on his boot. He was seen in visible pain and had to be helped off the field. Scans later confirmed a fracture in his right foot, ruling him out for approximately six weeks.
However, in an inspiring turn of events, Pant returned to the crease the following day, defying medical advice and pain, and went on to score a resilient half-century before being dismissed. His effort played a crucial role in stabilizing India’s innings and helping the team fight back.
Gautam Gambhir Applauds Pant’s Courage
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Pant’s brave innings, calling it the embodiment of the team’s fighting spirit.
“What Rishabh did for the team, batting with a broken foot, is the foundation of what this team represents. Not many have done that before. Generations will remember this,” said Gambhir.
“It’s unfortunate we won’t have him at The Oval, especially given his form. But he’s a vital part of our Test setup and we all hope for his speedy recovery,” he added.
N Jagadeesan Replaces Pant for The Oval Test
To fill the void left by Pant, N Jagadeesan, who has been in good domestic form, has been drafted into the Indian squad. This marks a significant opportunity for the Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper to prove his mettle on the international stage.
Jagadeesan joins fellow wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, giving India dual keeping options for the high-pressure match at The Oval.
Injury Updates: Arshdeep and Akash Deep Return, Nitish Reddy Ruled Out
India’s injury woes don’t end with Pant. Akash Deep (groin), Arshdeep Singh (finger), and Nitish Reddy (knee) were also dealing with fitness issues. While Nitish Reddy has been ruled out of the remainder of the series, both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh have recovered and are back in contention for the final match.
Their return strengthens India’s pace attack, offering more variety and depth for the upcoming contest.
India’s Updated Squad for Fifth Test
Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Kuldeep Yadav, Anshul Kamboj, Arshdeep Singh, N Jagadeesan (WK)
Oval Decider Could Define the Series
With the series finely poised, the absence of Pant creates a significant challenge for India. However, the return of pace options and inclusion of Jagadeesan provides hope that the team can adapt and maintain competitive intensity in the fifth Test.
Read: Washington and Jadeja’s 100-run partnership that shifted momentum
For the official squad update and injury reports, visit BCCI.tv – India Cricket News
