Manchester, July 24 — Team India has been dealt a massive blow as star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out for six weeks due to a fracture in his right toe, confirmed after a scan late Thursday evening. The injury occurred on the opening day of the 4th Test between India and England at Old Trafford, Manchester, during a reverse sweep attempt gone wrong.
The Injury Incident
The incident took place during the 68th over of the Indian innings, bowled by Chris Woakes. Attempting a reverse sweep, Pant misjudged the delivery and ended up getting an inside edge onto his right foot. The impact was immediate and severe — Pant removed his glove and grimaced in pain as he hobbled in discomfort.
The Indian team physio rushed to the field, and upon removing Pant’s shoe, visible swelling and bleeding confirmed a serious concern. The 27-year-old was unable to walk unaided and was eventually taken off the field in a golf buggy for immediate medical attention.
Scan Report & Medical Update
According to The Indian Express, sources in the BCCI medical team confirmed that Pant’s scan revealed a fractured toe, ruling him out for at least six weeks.
“The scan report showed a fracture, and he is ruled out for six weeks. The medical team is trying to see if he can come out to bat again by taking a painkiller. He still needs support to walk though, and chances of his batting look very bleak,” the source said.
The medical staff had considered pain management options to get Pant back for at least a brief batting stint, but the severity of the injury has left little room for optimism.
Impact on India’s England Tour
Pant’s injury effectively rules him out of the remainder of the England tour, including the crucial 5th and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, scheduled to begin on July 31 at The Oval, London. With India trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, Pant’s absence comes at a critical juncture.
Pant’s Performance in the Series
Pant has been a pillar of strength with the bat throughout the tour, scoring 462 runs in seven innings, making him India’s second-highest run-scorer behind captain Shubman Gill (619 runs). His aggressive stroke play and game-changing abilities in the middle order had played a key role in keeping India competitive in the series.
What Next for Team India?
India now faces a selection dilemma. With KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan already out due to injuries earlier in the tour, the team may have to bring in a replacement wicketkeeper at short notice or rely on a part-time option. It also puts more pressure on the Indian top order, as Pant’s lower-middle order fireworks often helped rescue the team from pressure situations.
