Old Trafford, Manchester:
In a moment of sheer grit, India’s wicketkeeper–batter Rishabh Pant made a courageous return to the crease on Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, despite nursing a fractured toe he sustained on Day 1. His presence, supported by a standing ovation from the crowd, uplifted the Indian side as they battled in challenging conditions.
Courage has a name ➡️ Rishabh Pant. 🐅 #SonySportsNetwork #GroundTumharaJeetHamari #ENGvIND #NayaIndia #DhaakadIndia #TeamIndia #ExtraaaInnings pic.twitter.com/G2ppROEnbD
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) July 24, 2025
Remarkable Return Despite Injury:
Pant had been forced to retire hurt for 37 runs on the opening day after Chris Woakes’ yorker fractured his right metatarsal when he attempted a reverse sweep. Initially carted off and fitted with a moon boot, scans confirmed a fractured toe, with BCCI advising six weeks’ rest. Despite this, Pant defied medical advice to join the squad on Day 2 on crutches and still barely able to bear weight.
Courage on Display:
When India lost early wickets Thursday morning, Pant surprised spectators by padding up again. He walked out amid a standing ovation from the Old Trafford crowd, determined to bat if required. Forced to “stand‑and‑deliver” due to his injury, he managed to add valuable runs, bringing India to 321/6 at lunch, remaining unbeaten on 38 from 52 balls.
Tactical and Emotional Boost:
Pant’s return brought both brace and tactical value. While wicket-keeping duties have shifted to Dhruv Jurel, Pant’s presence and innings kept India in the match, frustrating England’s bowlers in damp conditions. His defiance sent a strong message to teammates especially to battler Washington Sundar helping steady the innings.
Outlook and Concerns:
Though Pant’s spirit shone, pundits caution that his return comes at significant risk. BCCI officials have confirmed he will not keep wickets due to the injury, and his role with the bat is conditional on medical clearance. With a six-week recovery ahead, selectors are likely to consider replacements Ishan Kishan is expected for the Oval Test.
Also Read: Ishan Kishan Likely To Replace Injured Rishabh Pant!
Moment That Defines a Match:
At lunch, Pant’s scores 38 in the ongoing innings, 37 on Day 1*were testament to his fighting spirit. His return highlighted his importance not just statistically, but psychologically, breathing resilience into India’s fightback. Whether he can continue remains uncertain, but his bravery has already left an indelible mark on this fixture.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Injury | Right toe fracture (metatarsal) – advised 6 weeks rest |
| Wicketkeeping | Ruled out; Dhruv Jurel deputising |
| Batting return | Returned to bat on Day 2, scored 38*, climbed to lunch score of 321/6 |
| Next Test outlook | Likely replaced by Ishan Kishan at The Oval |
Pant’s resilience at Old Trafford transcends numbers it’s a statement of character. While his clinical impact may be limited by injury, his grit injects belief into an Indian side under pressure. Whatever happens next, this will be remembered as a defining moment of the series.
