New Delhi: India’s Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant has bid an emotional farewell to the England tour, urging his teammates to “do it for the country” after being ruled out of the fifth and final Test at The Oval due to a fractured toe.
Pant sustained the injury on Day 1 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, after being struck on the foot while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. Despite the pain and swelling, Pant returned to bat later in the innings, showcasing immense grit to score a counterattacking half-century and help India post a competitive first-innings total.
Speaking to BCCI before his departure, Pant downplayed his effort, calling it a small gesture for the team and the nation.
“Just a gesture from my side—whatever it takes to make our team win or push the team forward instead of thinking about personal goals. That was all that mattered to me. It’s been amazing the way the team and fans have backed me,” he said.
Pant added that playing for the nation brings unmatched pride.
“When the whole country stands behind you for the same cause, that feeling is beyond words. It’s an honour to represent India,” he added.
The 26-year-old wicketkeeper-batter had to retire hurt on 37 after the initial blow but returned later in the innings once Shardul Thakur was dismissed, walking in at 314/6. He fought through pain to notch a gutsy fifty, earning widespread admiration from teammates and fans alike.
Washington Sundar, who was batting alongside Pant, praised his teammate’s courage.
“It’s hard to even describe what he must’ve been going through. His toe was badly swollen and it hurt him just to walk. But he didn’t just walk — he batted. That shows his character. He’s truly the son of the country,” Sundar said.
With Pant ruled out, Tamil Nadu’s N Jagadeesan has been called up as a replacement, while Dhruv Jurel is expected to don the gloves at The Oval.
Before signing off from the tour, Pant had a final message for his teammates:
“The only message I’m going to give my team is — let’s win it, guys. Let’s do it for the country.”
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