Saturday, March 29, 2025
Team India suffered a major setback on the opening day of the Manchester Test as star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant sustained a serious injury. The incident occurred during his innings when a delivery from England pacer Chris Woakes struck him on the leg, causing visible swelling and bleeding.
Pant was visibly in pain and had to be carried off the field in a mini ambulance. He was immediately taken for scans, and the Indian camp is awaiting medical reports to assess the full extent of the injury.
After the close of play on Day 1, England spinner Liam Dawson expressed concern for Pant during a press conference:
“Hopefully, he’s okay. He didn’t look in great shape out there. Obviously, my sympathies are with him. He’s a massive player for India. But honestly, I don’t think we’ll see him back on the field in this match.”
Pant was batting on 37 runs when he attempted a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. The ball missed his bat and struck his leg directly. England appealed for LBW, but the on-field umpire turned it down. They reviewed the decision via DRS, but the third umpire upheld the original call.
Despite the not-out decision, Pant was in clear agony. He struggled to stand and was eventually forced to retire hurt, leaving the field with the assistance of medical staff.
By the end of the first day’s play, India reached 264/4. All-rounders Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja were unbeaten at the crease. Earlier, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan contributed valuable half-centuries to steady India’s innings.
Pant’s injury casts a shadow over India’s plans for the remainder of the Test. His availability for not only the rest of this match but potentially the series finale remains uncertain. The team management and fans will be hoping for positive news following his scan results.
