India are gearing up for a crucial fourth Test match in the ongoing five-match series against England, but there's one major concern in the squad - Rishabh Pant's finger injury.
The fourth Test starts on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester and Pant’s availability for wicketkeeping duties remains uncertain due to a finger injury he picked up during the Lord’s Test.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
India currently trails 2-1 in the series, and the upcoming Test is a must-win for the visitors to keep their hopes alive.
What happened to Rishabh Pant in the Lord’s Test?
Pant injured his finger on Day 1 of the third Test at Lord’s, which made it difficult for him to continue as wicketkeeper. As a result, Dhruv Jurel had to step in and complete the duties behind the stumps.
Despite the pain, Pant batted in both innings, scoring 74 and 9 runs. But the injury still needs attention, especially if he’s expected to keep wickets again.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate provided an update during a media interaction. He said that Pant will bat in the nets ahead of the Test in Manchester but a final call on his whether he will play has not been taken yet.
“He will bat in Manchester before the Test. I don't think you're gonna keep Rishabh out of the Test no matter what. He batted with quite a lot of pain in the 3rd Test, and it's only going to get easier on his finger,” ten Doeschate said.
MORE: Can Joe Root break Sachin Tendulkar's Test run tally?
Will Pant keep wickets in Old Trafford or only bat?
While his batting looks likely, it’s the wicketkeeping that’s still under watch. According to ten Doeschate, keeping is the final step in Pant’s recovery.
The team wants to be cautious and avoid a repeat of the Lord’s situation, where they had to change wicketkeepers mid-match.
“Keeping is the last part of the process. We need to make sure that he can keep but we don't want to go through that again where we have to replace the keeper halfway through an innings,” he added.
Pant was rested from training on Thursday (July 18) to give his finger more time to heal. “But he rested today, was trying to give the finger as long as possible, and hopefully, he's good to go in Manchester in the first session,” said the coach.
MORE: IPL 2026 rumours: Latest news on player trades and deals
With the match now just a few days away, the final decision on Pant’s role will likely come after a close look at his fitness during practice sessions.
When is the 4th Test between India and England?
The 4th Test between India and England will begin on Wednesday, July 23 and is scheduled to end on Sunday, July 27.
Start betting on India vs. England with Parimatch for up to ₹30,000 welcome bonus. Click HERE for latest offer details
Where is the 4th Test between India and England?
The fourth Test between India and England will be played at the Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester.