eam India suffered a major blow on Day 1 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford as wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt after sustaining a foot injury. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting expressed deep concern over Pant’s condition, suggesting a potential metatarsal fracture.
Pant, batting on 37 off 48 balls, was struck on his right toe while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. Despite an overturned LBW appeal, Pant was visibly in pain and bleeding from the injured area. Medical staff rushed in, and he was eventually taken for scans in a golf cart-ambulance.
The BCCI later confirmed: “Rishabh Pant was hit on his right foot while batting on Day 1 of the Manchester Test. He was taken for scans. The medical team is monitoring his progress.”
Ponting, who has worked with Pant in the IPL, remarked on Sky Sports: “The fact that he couldn’t put any weight on the foot is worrying. If it’s broken, he could miss the rest of the series.”
Pant’s absence would be a huge setback for India, not only for this match but the remainder of the series. Debutant Sai Sudharsan also acknowledged the potential impact on team dynamics.
At stumps, India stood at 264/4. The team remains hopeful for positive updates on Pant’s recovery.