The Indian cricket team has suffered a major setback in the Manchester Test. Star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who retired hurt during the first day's play, will now be sidelined for the next few weeks.
IND vs ENG: Team India has been dealt a significant blow in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Key wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will be out of action for six weeks due to a fractured foot. This information, according to BCCI sources, could significantly impact India's strategy and balance. The fifth and deciding Test match is scheduled to begin on July 31st at The Oval, London, where Pant's absence could pose a challenge for India.
How did the injury occur?
During the first day of the Manchester Test, in the 68th over, Pant attempted a reverse sweep off a delivery from Chris Woakes. The ball struck the inside edge of the bat and hit his right foot. Pant immediately received medical attention and was forced to retire hurt. Scans conducted after the match revealed a microfracture in his foot. The BCCI's medical team has advised him to rest for at least six weeks.
Will Pant be able to play further?
A senior BCCI official stated that the scan report confirmed the fracture. The team management inquired about the possibility of him batting with painkillers if needed, but his return to the field in his current condition is almost impossible. Pant requires support to walk, making a return to the field risky.
The selection committee has decided to immediately add Ishan Kishan to the team as a wicketkeeping option. Kishan has previously kept wickets for India in Test cricket, and his aggressive style of play could be beneficial for the team. Ishan Kishan will now join Team India before the fifth Test, which will begin on July 31st and last until August 4th at The Oval.
India troubled by persistent injuries
Pant's injury is the latest blow for India. The Indian team is already grappling with injuries to several players on the current England tour: Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the series due to a knee injury. Arshdeep Singh suffered a thumb injury, preventing him from playing the fourth Test. Akashdeep Singh is suffering from a groin strain and is not considered fit for selection.
The team's bench strength is being tested in this difficult situation. On the first day of the Manchester Test, India scored 264 runs for 4 wickets in 83 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (19)* and Shardul Thakur (19)* are at the crease, and India is aiming for a b first innings total. However, Rishabh Pant's absence could affect both the lower-order batting and the wicketkeeping.
