In a dramatic turn of events during the ongoing India vs England Test at Lord’s, star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was forced off the field after sustaining a finger injury on Day 2. The incident occurred when Pant was keeping to Jasprit Bumrah, and a sharp delivery took an awkward bounce, hitting Pant flush on his left-hand finger. Although he tried to continue, the pain proved too severe, prompting the Indian team management to call for immediate medical attention.
Details of Pant’s injury scare at Lord’s
The match saw intense action as England tried to rebuild their innings after early setbacks. Pant, known for his acrobatic wicketkeeping and fearless approach, appeared in discomfort immediately after the blow. Physio intervention lasted over five minutes near the pitch, after which he walked off, visibly grimacing and holding his left hand tightly.
An insider close to the team revealed:
“Rishabh felt a sharp pain, and there was swelling. The medical team advised precautionary rest. An X-ray may be done if pain persists.”
Dhruv Jurel replaces Pant behind the stumps
With Pant off the field, young Dhruv Jurel was asked to don the gloves. Jurel, who made his debut earlier this year against England, took the opportunity with confidence, ensuring minimal disruption to India’s bowling plans. His quick reflexes and sharp collection on a tricky Lord’s surface kept English batters cautious throughout the session.
Pant’s injury timeline and comeback journey
Rishabh Pant’s career has been marked by resilience. After a near-fatal car accident in December 2022, he spent over a year in rehabilitation before making a fairytale comeback during IPL 2024, followed by his international return. His batting and keeping have both shown remarkable recovery.
However, finger injuries are not new to wicketkeepers, and their recurrence often hampers form and confidence. Past records indicate Pant’s fingers have borne the brunt of fast bowlers’ awkward bounce multiple times.
Expert comments on Pant’s fitness concerns
Former India wicketkeeper Kiran More said:
“Wicketkeeping at Lord’s is tough due to uneven bounce near the slope ends. Pant has strong hands, but repeated hits can impact his long-term fitness. Dhruv Jurel getting exposure is good for India’s bench strength.”
Pant’s impact in the ongoing series
Before the injury, Pant had been instrumental for India both with the bat and behind the stumps. His quickfire 58 in the first innings gave India vital momentum. His aggressive approach has consistently countered England’s attacking pacers, keeping them unsettled.
Wicketkeeping options for India if Pant misses remainder of the Test
If Pant is ruled out for the rest of the Lord’s Test, Dhruv Jurel will continue. Additionally, KS Bharat remains on standby within the squad. Team sources confirm no official update yet on Pant’s replacement for upcoming Tests, but his recovery will be monitored daily.
| Player | Role | Test Matches Played | Average (Bat) | Dismissals (WK) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rishabh Pant | WK-Batter | 35 | 43.7 | 127 |
| Dhruv Jurel | WK-Batter | 3 | 34.5 | 12 |
| KS Bharat | WK-Batter | 6 | 20.7 | 24 |
Why Pant is crucial for India’s overseas Test plans
- Middle order stability – His counter-attacking innings balance defensive top-order strategies.
- Aggressive wicketkeeping – Particularly standing up to spinners and managing awkward bounce abroad.
- Leadership influence – As former stand-in captain, his dressing room presence inspires younger players.
What lies ahead: medical updates awaited
Team India’s medical staff will re-assess Pant overnight to decide if he can bat or keep in England’s second innings. A BCCI statement is expected later today clarifying the extent of injury.
Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel remains focused on seizing this opportunity, having already impressed with his glovework and composure during the England tour earlier this year.
Fan reactions on social media
Fans poured in emotional messages wishing Pant a speedy recovery, with hashtags like #ComeBackStrongerPant and #DhruvJurel trending on X. While some raised concerns about Pant’s repeated finger injuries, many lauded Jurel’s confidence under pressure.
Disclaimer
This article is for information and news reporting purposes only. All match statistics and player injury updates are based on current available reports. Readers are advised to follow official BCCI statements for confirmed medical updates.
