In a moment that transcended the cut and thrust of Test cricket, Rishabh Pant, the indomitable Indian wicketkeeper-batter, emerged from the pavilion this afternoon to resume his innings with a fractured right foot.
The sight of the hobbling, determined figure, just one day after being carted off the field in agony, ignited a spontaneous standing ovation from the Old Trafford faithful and etched itself instantly into the annals of cricketing heroism.
Pant had sustained a painful metatarsal fracture yesterday while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes, a blow that saw him retire hurt on 37 runs.
Rishabh Pant is hobbling out to a standing ovation from the Old Trafford crowd! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/I1vZ1MLR16
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 24, 2025
Initial scans and medical advice reportedly suggested a minimum of six weeks' rest, effectively ruling him out of not just the remainder of this crucial Fourth Test, but also the final match of the series.
The BCCI had already confirmed Dhruv Jurel would take over wicket-keeping duties for the rest of the match.
Yet, as India faced a testing period on Day Two, with wickets falling and the prospect of being bowled out prematurely looming, Pant made the extraordinary decision to return to the crease.
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Arriving at the ground in a moon boot and with the aid of a stick, his grimacing determination was clear for all to see.
He walked slowly, almost gingerly, down the pavilion steps, but his eyes were fixed on the pitch, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his team and country.
The applause that erupted from the stands was a powerful recognition of the sheer courage on display.
He played and missed at a couple of early deliveries from Ben Stokes, even taking a blow on the glove, but gradually settled, battling through clear discomfort to eke out precious runs.
Every single taken was met with a murmur of appreciation, every boundary, a roar of encouragement.
Pant would eventually reach his half-century before getting bowled by Jofra Archer for a respectable 54.
His decision to bat, despite the clear and present physical challenge, underscored the fighting spirit that Rishabh Pant embodies.
It was a remarkable act of selflessness, demonstrating that even with a fractured foot, a hero's resolve can still inspire and leave an indelible mark on a Test match.