Introduction
LONDON, July 28, 2025 – Team India’s vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out of the fifth and final Test against England following a foot fracture sustained during the recently concluded fourth Test in Manchester.
🔹 What Caused Rishabh Pant's Injury?
Pant sustained the injury during the first innings of the fourth Test while attempting a reverse sweep. The ball hit his right foot awkwardly, forcing him to walk off in visible discomfort. Later scans revealed a fractured right foot, sidelining him for the upcoming match at The Oval.
Despite the pain, the fearless cricketer returned to the crease the next day, showcasing remarkable grit by scoring a crucial half-century that helped stabilize India’s position. However, the injury worsened, and his availability for the fifth Test became impossible.
🔹 BCCI Makes It Official: Pant Won’t Play Fifth Test
On July 27, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Rishabh Pant would miss the final Test due to the fracture. The board added that Narayan Jagadeesan would be drafted in as his replacement behind the stumps.
BCCI’s statement also mentioned that the medical team would monitor Pant’s condition closely and support his rehabilitation journey. The board wished him a complete and swift recovery.
🔹 How Serious Is the Injury?
Medical assessments have confirmed that Pant is suffering from a fractured toe or foot bone, which could keep him out of action for six to eight weeks depending on healing and rehab progression. Such fractures often require rest, immobilization, and careful physical therapy before returning to full training.
This development means that Pant may miss not only the rest of the Test series but also upcoming domestic or international fixtures.
🔹 Rishabh Pant Breaks Silence: Shares Recovery Plans
Shortly after the official announcement, Pant took to social media to share his thoughts with fans. He expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support and assured everyone that he was optimistic about recovery.
“I’ve started the process of healing, and once the fracture is stable, I’ll begin rehab. Staying positive and following the plan,” he wrote, adding that he’s eager to get back to action soon.
🔹 Series Impact: How India Will Cope Without Pant
With Pant ruled out, Dhruv Jurel—who stepped in during the fourth Test—will continue wicketkeeping duties. Now, with Jagadeesan included in the squad, India will have a dual option for the gloves in the final Test at The Oval.
Pant has been instrumental in the series, contributing nearly 480 runs, including two centuries. His absence will certainly be felt, both for his match-winning ability and his leadership on the field.
Coach Gautam Gambhir praised Pant’s courage, stating that his decision to return and bat while in pain was an inspirational moment for the entire squad. “He showed what true commitment looks like,” said Gambhir during a press conference.
🔹 England’s Response and Controversy Around Substitutes
While India shuffles its combination due to injury, England captain Ben Stokes addressed rising debates over substitute players in Tests. Some critics questioned whether injured players should be replaced mid-series.
Stokes called such debates “nonsense,” stating that injuries are a part of sport and each team must play with what they have.
🔹 Where Does the Series Stand?
Going into the fifth Test, England leads the five-match series 2–1. With one match ending in a draw and India’s key performer out, the final Test at The Oval carries significant weight.
Without Pant, India’s batting order might shift, with more responsibility falling on the shoulders of players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill.
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