India’s fight to stay alive in the Test series has received a much-needed lifeline. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, despite carrying a fractured toe, is expected to bat on the final day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester.
With India still trailing England by 137 runs, the news couldn’t have come at a better time. Pant was injured earlier in the match when a sharp delivery from Chris Woakes struck his right foot, forcing him to leave the field in visible pain.
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The medical reports later confirmed a metatarsal fracture, ruling him out of keeping duties. But despite being advised to rest, Pant's fighting spirit has remained intact and so has his bat.
What did the team management say about Pant’s availability?
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak gave the update after the end of play on Day 4. “Rishabh Pant will bat tomorrow,” he stated during the press conference, signaling that the left-hander is prepared to walk in if required.
This will not be the first time Pant braves pain in this match. He had already walked out to bat in the first innings at No. 8 and added some quick runs, including a defiant six, even while visibly hobbling between the wickets.
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How crucial is Pant’s role in India’s survival chances?
India ended Day 4 at 174/2, with Shubman Gill and KL Rahul providing stability after a horrific start with both batters scoring gritty half-centuries.
Even so, India is still 137 runs behind and only has eight wickets in hand. If they are to save this match and keep the series alive, every available batter will need to contribute, including Pant.
Given that the series currently stands at 2-1 in England’s favour, losing this Test would mean the end of India’s hopes of winning the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
A draw, however, would allow them a shot at levelling the series in the fifth and final Test, starting July 31.
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Why can’t Dhruv Jurel bat in Pant’s place?
Though Dhruv Jurel has taken over the wicketkeeping gloves due to Pant’s injury, he cannot replace Pant as a batter.
ICC regulations prohibit substitute fielders or wicketkeepers from batting or bowling. That means Pant remains a vital piece in India’s batting puzzle.
If he does come out on Day 5, his intent, courage, and quick-scoring ability could be exactly what India needs to push for a draw in testing conditions.
For a side that has been battered by a massive 311-run first-innings lead, Pant's presence at the crease might just offer a late flicker of hope.