Pant the Spartan: Old Trafford rises as Superman of Indian cricket hobbles out to bat | WATCH

Rishabh Pant showcased extraordinary grit and determination during the fourth Test in Manchester, returning to bat on Day 2 despite retiring hurt on Day 1 due to a foot injury. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter sustained the injury after a Chris Woakes delivery struck his right foot while attempting a reverse sweep, forcing him off the field in significant pain. Initial scans revealed a mild compound fracture, explaining the bleeding and swelling that followed. He had to be taken off the field in a mobile ambulance and was later seen wearing a protective moon boot.

Despite not being fit enough to resume wicketkeeping duties — with the BCCI confirming Dhruv Jurel would take over the gloves — Pant returned purely as a batter. His reappearance at the crease, following Shardul Thakur’s dismissal, was met with a standing ovation from a packed Old Trafford. The moment was emotional and inspiring, with fans acknowledging the courage it took to walk out with a fractured toe.

Pant’s commitment has been widely lauded. His willingness to play through injury, particularly in a series where India trails 1-2, reflects his warrior spirit. Thakur, in a mark of respect, waited on the field for Pant to make his way down from the dressing room before crossing the boundary. The BCCI had earlier stated that Pant might return to bat if required, generating anticipation among fans online.

Now batting alongside Washington Sundar, Pant’s goal is to steer India to a competitive total, even as his injury remains a concern. Notably, this is not the first knock he has endured in the series — he had earlier suffered a finger injury during the third Test, which also led to Jurel temporarily taking over the wicketkeeping duties.