MANCHESTER – India vice-captain and star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has finally opened up after being ruled out of the remainder of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy due to a foot fracture sustained during the fourth Test at Manchester. In a heartfelt statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Pant thanked fans for their support and confirmed he will begin rehab after his fracture heals.
“Appreciate all the love and good wishes coming my way. It’s been a real source of strength,” Pant wrote. “I will begin rehab once my fracture heals and I am slowly settling into the process. Staying patient, following the routines, and giving it my 100 percent.”
He added, “Playing for my country has always been the proudest moment of my life. Can’t wait to be back doing what I love.”
The Injury Incident
The injury occurred on Day 1 of the Manchester Test, when Pant inside-edged a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes onto his foot. He collapsed in visible pain and had to be taken off the field in a golf cart. Despite the discomfort, the 27-year-old showed incredible grit by returning to bat on Day 2, scoring a resilient half-century before falling to Jofra Archer.
Pant’s bravery didn’t stop there. He was even prepared to bat again on the final day, although that wasn’t necessary as Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja held off England to secure a hard-fought draw.
BCCI Confirms Pant’s Exit from Final Test
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Sunday that Pant has been ruled out of the final Test at The Oval, starting Thursday, July 31. He has been advised six weeks of rest, and the medical team will continue to monitor his progress.
Jagadeesan Named Replacement
As a replacement, the Men’s Selection Committee has drafted in Narayan Jagadeesan, who will now join the squad ahead of the final Test.
Pant’s Impact in the Series
Pant has been one of the most consistent performers for India throughout the series, which England currently leads 2-1. In seven innings, he amassed 479 runs, including twin centuries in the Headingley Test and a gritty 74 at Lord’s, where he battled another injury after being hit on the hand while collecting a Jasprit Bumrah delivery.
India will look to level the series in the final match without one of their key players, as Pant begins the road to recovery.
