Will Rishabh Pant Bat Again Despite His Foot Fracture?

Manchester, July 24 (NationPress) In an astonishing display of determination, India's vice-captain Rishabh Pant, despite suffering a fracture in his right foot during the first day of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, has expressed a strong desire to return to bat — a revelation that has caught even his teammates off guard.

Pant's injury occurred on the fourth ball of the 68th over when he attempted a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. Unfortunately, he under-edged the ball onto his right foot. While England's team unsuccessfully reviewed the on-field not-out decision for lbw, it was evident that Pant was in significant pain, prompting India's physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain to rush to his aid.

The injury appeared dire as swelling rapidly developed on the top of Pant's foot, resembling a table tennis ball, with visible bleeding captured on the broadcast. Unable to bear weight on the injured foot, Pant was transported off the field in an ambulance buggy, having retired hurt after scoring a commendable 37 off 48 balls.

Hospital scans later confirmed a fracture near the metatarsal bone, requiring a minimum recovery period of six weeks. This timeline effectively rules Pant out of the remainder of the Manchester Test and the upcoming fifth Test at The Oval, set to begin on July 31.

Yet, true to his fighting spirit, the wicketkeeper-batter has conveyed a strong wish to bat again in the ongoing match, despite the evident discomfort. Sources indicate that even while receiving treatment in the hospital, including injections for the fractured foot, Pant's desire to contribute to the team's efforts remains unshaken.

The decision regarding his return to batting is not straightforward, as it ultimately lies with the medical team in Manchester. For now, it is understood that Dhruv Jurel, the backup wicketkeeper-batter, will assume keeping duties in Manchester.

Pant's eagerness to bat again, despite his injury, exemplifies his resilience in the face of adversity. A close source mentioned that Pant's first challenge is to manage to wear a shoe on the fractured foot and bear weight on it, which complicates his ability to take guard and resume batting.

It’s understandable that Pant wishes to take the field for his team and the country, especially considering India's position in the series, where they trail 2-1 against England.

In the past, Pant has demonstrated remarkable resilience, notably returning to competitive cricket following multiple injuries sustained in a life-threatening car accident in December 2022, undergoing extensive rehabilitation.

During the third Test at Lord’s, he sustained an injury to his left index finger while wicketkeeping but still managed to score 74 and 9 when batting. However, batting with a fractured foot presents a significantly greater physical challenge.

Whether Pant will indeed return to the field remains uncertain, as the ultimate decision rests with the Indian team’s medical staff. Nonetheless, his unwavering desire to fight through pain and contribute to his team's cause continues to embody Pant’s remarkable determination and commitment.