Pant Fights Injury Scores 54 in Gutsy Comeback
England may have believed Rishabh Pant was done for the series after his foot injury on Day 1 of the fourth Test in Manchester. But the Indian wicketkeeper-batter returned with determination and delivered a courageous half-century despite a fractured toe.
Pant was forced to retire hurt on Day 1 after an inside edge from a reverse sweep attempt deflected onto his right foot. The injury looked serious as he was taken off the field with visible swelling and pain. Later reports confirmed a toe fracture, and India named Dhruv Jurel as the replacement wicketkeeper for the rest of the match.
However, in a surprising and heroic move, Pant walked out to bat again on Day 2 after India lost two quick wickets. He resumed on 37 and batted with a noticeable limp. Despite being targeted by toe-crushing deliveries from Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, Pant remained fearless. He even responded to Archer’s yorker attempt by smashing the next ball for a boundary.
Grit and Guts Shine in Pant’s Comeback
Pant’s courage brought him applause from the crowd as he fought both pain and pace. He eventually scored 54 runs before being bowled by Archer, who ended India’s innings with three wickets. His knock helped India reach a total of 358.
The Indian innings saw quick dismissals after lunch, with Ben Stokes removing Washington Sundar and Anshul Kamboj. Pant’s gritty innings became the standout moment of the day, reminding fans of his fearless style and commitment to the team.
England ended the day strongly at 77/0, with Duckett and Crawley setting a solid foundation. But Pant’s heroics were a shining example of determination and bravery, showing that spirit can often outplay even the fiercest of injuries.
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