Rishabh Pant has shown remarkable resilience and intent as he prepares to bat at No. 5 in India’s second innings, despite a painful finger injury. The wicketkeeper-batter sustained a blow to his left index finger on Day 1 of the third Test at Lord’s. Yet, he hit the nets the very next day, determined to contribute with the bat.
How the Injury Happened
The injury occurred while Pant was keeping to Jasprit Bumrah. During one delivery down the leg side to Ollie Pope, the ball struck Pant’s fingertips sharply. He instantly winced in pain. Though he attempted to complete the over, he soon walked off the field for treatment. As a result, Dhruv Jurel took over the gloves on Day 2.
Pant’s Net Session Shows Grit
On the morning of Day 3, Pant arrived early at the ground. He was accompanied by batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, physio Yogesh Parmar, and two throwdown specialists. While he was still not fit enough to keep wickets, Pant showed eagerness to test himself with the bat. The team created a special net area for him to train in private, away from the main pitch.
Pant started the session slowly. He watched the ball closely and focused on playing grounded shots. But it became clear he was still in pain. After almost every shot, he shook his left hand or removed it from the bat entirely. At times, he paused to flex his fingers or gently tap them against his thigh. Despite the discomfort, he continued batting for over 15 minutes.
Pant Likely to Play Only as a Batter
Observers noted Pant’s struggle but also praised his grit. Even though he was far from full fitness, he didn’t give up. His actions spoke louder than any medical update. He wanted to be part of the game. That attitude has reportedly convinced the team management to include him in the batting lineup.
According to Hindustan Times, sources inside the camp have confirmed that Rishabh Pant will bat at No. 5. While he may not be ready to keep wickets, he remains a vital part of the batting unit. His ability to counterattack in pressure situations makes him a key asset. His presence in the middle order will help balance the lineup, especially if the top order fails to deliver.
Despite Pant’s commitment, the BCCI medical team continues to monitor his injury. Dhruv Jurel will retain the wicketkeeping duties for the rest of the match. Pant is expected to take the field only for batting duties, depending on the match situation and his recovery.
India Shows Faith in Pant Once Again
India’s team management has often backed Pant during challenging phases. This time is no different. Even with limited preparation and visible pain, Pant’s sheer willpower seems to have earned him a spot in the second innings.
If Pant manages to bat effectively, it could provide India with a much-needed anchor or counterpunch in a tight contest.
Jaiswal Falls Early as Archer Shines on Return
Earlier, India suffered a major setback at the start of their first innings. England pacer Jofra Archer, returning to Test cricket after four years, made an immediate impact. Bowling his third delivery, Archer dismissed the in-form Yashasvi Jaiswal for 13.
The left-hander attempted to drive a delivery that moved just enough to catch the edge. The ball flew to second slip, where it was safely pouched. The dismissal gave England the early breakthrough they wanted, and it set the tone for the rest of the session.
India Faces Pressure Heading Into Second Innings
Jaiswal’s wicket was a big moment for Archer, who had been battling injuries and lengthy rehab periods. His return to red-ball cricket was closely watched, and this early success gave him and his team a much-needed boost.
India’s batting lineup now faces added pressure in the second innings. With Pant nursing an injury and the top order struggling, the team will look to its middle order to absorb pressure and score vital runs.
Pant’s decision to push through the pain and be available to bat is a big boost to India’s hopes. As the Test progresses, all eyes will be on whether his bravery with the bat can shift momentum in India’s favor.
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