Rishabh Pant’s Injury Shifts Momentum in Intense Fourth Test Battle
What a dramatic and gut-wrenching turn of events unfolded on the first day of the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford. While the contest was evenly poised for much of the day, Rishabh Pant's injury became the defining moment—one that could genuinely alter the trajectory of not just this match, but potentially the series.
India were looking solid at 264 for 4, and Rishabh Pant was playing the kind of counter-attacking innings that only he can. At 37 off 48 balls, he was just beginning to look dangerous—mixing flamboyance with flashes of pure brilliance. But then came that reverse sweep attempt off Chris Woakes. The delivery thudded straight onto Pant’s right foot, and it was immediately clear he was in serious discomfort. The physio rushed in, and while he initially tried to shake it off, it wasn't long before he had to retire hurt. Eventually, he was taken off the field on a stretcher-like cart, unable to put any weight on his foot.
This wasn’t just any player walking off. This was Rishabh Pant—the emotional heartbeat of the Indian middle order, someone who has time and again changed games with audacious strokeplay and fearless intent. His absence left a void on the field and a sense of unease in the Indian camp.
Also Read:- Freedom Convoy Organizers Tamara Lich and Chris Barber Face Sentencing Showdown
- Trapped Under a Heat Dome: Why This Summer Feels Like an Oven
Earlier, Sudharsan had impressed with a gritty 61, making the most of a reprieve when Jamie Smith dropped him early in his innings. He stitched a useful partnership with Pant that looked like it could push India beyond 300. But once Pant was forced off and Sudharsan holed out soon after, the momentum clearly swung England’s way.
Ben Stokes, England’s indefatigable leader, once again rose to the occasion, grabbing two vital wickets and bowling with menace and control across 14 lively overs. His delivery to trap Shubman Gill LBW was especially poetic, considering the friction between the two during the last Test. Liam Dawson, too, made a dream return to Test cricket, claiming a wicket in his second over after nearly eight years out of the side.
England’s strategy—fielding first under gloomy skies—looked dicey in the morning but began paying off post-lunch. Despite some early wayward spells, Woakes, Dawson, and Stokes pulled things back commendably. That late injury to Pant, however, could turn out to be the moment that defines this Test.
India now face a tricky situation. Pant’s availability for the rest of the match, and possibly the series, hangs in the balance. There’s talk of Ishan Kishan or even KL Rahul stepping in as wicketkeeper if Pant can’t continue, but it’s clear—no one can replace the impact Pant brings. Dhruv Jurel, who previously filled in behind the stumps, had a shaky outing at Lord’s, conceding 26 byes.
With India also nursing other injuries—Nitish Reddy and Akash Deep being ruled out—this could become a real test of squad depth and resilience. Sai Sudharsan said it best after the day's play: if Pant doesn’t return, the consequences could be significant. India must now bat deep and smartly to compensate for his likely absence.
Read More:
0 Comments