Should Pant Play as a Specialist Batter Without Keeping in Manchester?
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Synopsis
With Rishabh Pant's fitness in question ahead of the crucial fourth Test against England, former coach Ravi Shastri raises a significant point: should Pant take the field as a specialist batter if he cannot keep? This decision could impact India's chances significantly.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant's fitness is under scrutiny ahead of the fourth Test.
- Ravi Shastri advises against playing Pant as a specialist batter if he can't keep.
- India is currently 1-2 down in the series against England.
- Dhruv Jurel filled in for Pant during the last match.
- The team is prioritizing Pant's recovery before making a decision.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) As India contemplates Rishabh Pant's participation in the upcoming fourth Test against England in Manchester, former head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed that the team's vice-captain should not step in as a specialist batter unless he is ready to assume keeping responsibilities for the match that kicks off on July 23.
Pant, who scored 74 and nine in the previous Test at Lord's, experienced significant discomfort after being struck on the left index finger on the first day and subsequently did not keep wickets for the remainder of the game. In his stead, substitute keeper Dhruv Jurel took over the gloves.
“I don't believe he (Pant) should enter as a specialist batter if he’s unable to keep because he will still need to field, and if he does that, it could be detrimental. With the gloves, there is at least some protection. Without them, if he suffers another impact, it could exacerbate the injury,” Shastri remarked in a video shared on ICC's Instagram account on Friday.
After India faced a 22-run defeat, trailing 1-2 in the five-match series against England, captain Shubman Gill stated that Pant is expected to be fit for the Manchester match. During the team’s practice session at Beckenham on Thursday, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate mentioned that the team is allowing Pant ample time to recuperate and be ready for action in Manchester.
“Moreover, it’s essential to determine if there is a break. If it’s a break or fracture, I can’t say, as I'm not in the dressing room, but I believe it’s wiser for him to rest and return fully fit at The Oval. However, he won’t have a substitute. They will be aware of his injury status.
“When selecting the team for the next Test, he will need to keep and bat. He can’t do just one of those roles. It’s better for him to be completely fit. If it’s not a crack, I think he will play. If there’s no fracture, with about eight or nine days to go, he should be alright,” Shastri concluded.
Point of View
It's vital to consider the implications of Rishabh Pant's injury on India's performance. While his batting skills are unmatched, the team must prioritize player health and recovery. Balancing Pant's potential contributions as a batter with the risk of further injury is crucial to maintaining the team's competitive edge.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rishabh Pant fit to play in the fourth Test?
As of now, Rishabh Pant's fitness is uncertain. The team is giving him time to recover before the match.
What did Ravi Shastri say about Pant's role?
Ravi Shastri stated that Pant should not play solely as a specialist batter if he cannot keep wickets, as it may worsen his injury.
Who replaced Pant as the wicketkeeper?
Dhruv Jurel took over the wicketkeeping duties in Pant's absence during the last Test.
What is the current status of India's series against England?
India is currently trailing 1-2 in the five-match Test series against England.
What is the importance of Pant's fitness?
Pant's fitness is crucial for India's chances of success in the upcoming Test, as he plays a vital role both as a batsman and a wicketkeeper.
