Manchester: Team India suffered a potential setback on Day 1 of the fourth Test against England, as star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant sustained a serious foot injury while batting at Old Trafford. Pant was forced to leave the field after a reverse sweep went awry, striking his right foot and leading to immediate swelling and visible discomfort.
Pant, known for his fearless strokeplay, was batting confidently on 37 when he attempted an audacious reverse sweep off a yorker from Chris Woakes. The ball took an inside edge and crashed into Pant’s right boot. When the medical staff removed his shoe, the foot appeared swollen and bruised. Unable to continue, Pant was taken off the field on a golf cart, raising immediate concerns about the severity of the injury.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, speaking on Sky Sports, expressed serious concern: “He has a pain threshold that’s very high. For him to grimace like that — it’s serious. It could get worse overnight. Let’s hope it’s not a break or a crack.”
Adding to the concern, Australian legend Ricky Ponting, who has worked closely with Pant in the IPL at Delhi Capitals, suspected a metatarsal fracture. “The swelling was immediate. That’s what worries me. He couldn’t put any weight on it. I’ve had a metatarsal injury myself — those bones are fragile,” Ponting said. “If it’s broken, he’s out of the game. If it’s not, they’ll try everything to get him back out there.”
Ponting also emphasized the potential impact of Pant’s absence. “The way Rishabh plays, the momentum he brings — India will miss that. If he’s ruled out, that’s a massive blow not just for this match, but for the rest of the series.”
Michael Atherton, former England captain, echoed similar concerns. “If Pant is out of the game, or worse, the series, it changes everything. India’s 264/4 becomes 264/5 with the second new ball due. If he doesn’t return, England have a real opportunity. But if he does come back, he can change the game in a session,” Atherton said.
As of now, there is no official confirmation from the BCCI regarding the extent of the injury. The Indian camp is expected to monitor Pant’s condition overnight, with scans likely to determine the next course of action. Fans across the cricketing world are hoping for a quick recovery, as Pant’s presence is vital for India’s balance and firepower — both with the bat and behind the stumps.
