London, July 10: Team India endured a worrying moment on Day One of the Lord’s Test against England, as wicketkeeper and vice-captain Rishabh Pant was forced to leave the field following a hand injury in the 34th over.
The incident occurred while Pant attempted to stop a wayward delivery from Jasprit Bumrah that veered sharply down the leg side. The ball brushed just the tip of Pant’s fingers, causing immediate discomfort. The 26-year-old received on-field medical attention and appeared to be in considerable pain, struggling to put his gloves back on. Although he managed to complete the over, Pant eventually walked off and was replaced behind the stumps by Dhruv Jurel.
Jurel, India’s reserve wicketkeeper in the squad, took over glovework duties, while KL Rahul – another potential wicketkeeping option – remained on the field in his regular role. Rahul has kept wickets for India in ODIs and has previous Test experience with the gloves.
The incident prompted debate in the commentary box, with Ian Ward suggesting that Rahul might have been a more immediate choice to step in. “Jurel is a fine keeper, no doubt, but KL Rahul was already in the rhythm of the game, having been at slip,” said Ward. “Perhaps it would’ve been easier for him to take over temporarily.”
The severity of Pant’s injury is yet to be confirmed by the BCCI, but visuals from the broadcast raised concerns. “There’s significant swelling in one of his fingers,” noted Ward. “It doesn’t look promising. Could be a potential fracture.”Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara echoed the concern. “If it’s a fracture, it will be very tough for Pant to bat,” he said. “India won’t be allowed a batting substitute unless it’s a concussion case. And losing a batter like Pant would be a massive setback.”
As per ICC rules, updated in 2017, substitute fielders are permitted to keep wickets in the event of injury or illness to the designated wicketkeeper. However, they are not eligible to lead the side in such situations.
The injury comes at a delicate juncture for India in the ongoing Test and raises questions over Pant’s availability for the remainder of the match. As fans await official updates, India will be hoping their dynamic left-hander recovers in time to take the field with the bat. (Agencies)
