Manchester, July 23, 2025 – Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant shocked everyone by retiring hurt on Day 1 of the crucial fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. The left-hander was batting on 37 when he tried a reverse sweep off English pacer Chris Woakes in the 68th over. The shot went wrong, and Pant bottom-edged the ball straight onto his right foot. He collapsed at the crease, showing clear signs of pain, and on-field medical staff rushed over as swelling developed fast.
Pant couldn’t walk off on his own and had to be carried off the field on a medical buggy, prompting worries from teammates and fans. Blood was reportedly seen seeping from his foot, adding to fears of a serious injury.
How It Happened
- Incident: Reverse sweep against Woakes, inside-edged onto the right foot.
- Pant was batting well, having built a decent partnership with Sai Sudharsan.
- Immediate swelling and severe pain forced him to retire hurt.
- Medical staff provided on-field treatment before moving him for scans, per BCCI update.
Ravindra Jadeja replaced Pant at the crease, and play moved on with India at 264/4 by stumps. The BCCI later confirmed that Pant was taken for scans and their doctors are monitoring him closely.
Impact on India’s Lineup
Pant’s injury could have major effects:
- India loses a key middle-order batter and wicketkeeper if he can’t return.
- He had also picked up a finger injury in the previous Test, but played despite discomfort.
- Teammates and commentators have said his absence leaves a “huge hole” in India’s side.
- Debate arose among cricket experts about whether obvious injury substitutions should be allowed in Tests to keep teams even.
What Happens Next
There is still uncertainty about how serious the injury is. Some reports suggest a possible metatarsal fracture, which could rule him out for the rest of the series. For now, India’s medical team will wait for detailed scan results.
Fans and players are hoping for the best as India trails in the series and faces a must-win situation. Updates on Pant’s fitness and any replacements are expected before Day 2.
