England ended Day 1 of the fourth Test with the upper hand after a dramatic turn of events saw India’s key player Rishabh Pant leave the field in pain following a toe injury, just as he was beginning to look dangerous with the bat.
India Ends Day 1 at 264/4 — But Pant’s Injury Overshadows the Score
India finished Day 1 on 264/4 after being put into bat by England captain Ben Stokes, who won his fourth consecutive toss this series. Sai Sudharsan (61) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) were the standout scorers, but it was Rishabh Pant’s injury in the 68th over that became the biggest talking point of the day.
The dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, who had already battled through a finger injury in the last Test at Lord’s, was struck on the toe while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes. The ball crashed into his boot, leading to visible swelling, bleeding, and intense pain. Despite initial on-field treatment, Pant had to retire hurt and was stretchered off in a mini-ambulance, leaving Indian fans and players deeply concerned.
Rishabh Pant Injury Update: Scan Results Awaited, Comeback Doubtful
The injury appeared serious. While the on-field lbw appeal was turned down and replays showed a faint under-edge, the bigger concern was Pant’s mobility. He could barely stand, and the physio’s attempts to assist him failed, confirming the injury’s severity. As of now, Pant’s availability for Day 2 remains uncertain, and he is unlikely to keep wickets for the rest of the match.
This is a huge blow to India’s hopes of leveling the series, as the team is already trailing 2-1 and desperately needs a win in Manchester to stay alive in the five-match series.
England’s Bowling Response: Stokes Strikes Twice, Dawson Impresses
Skipper Ben Stokes led from the front once again, picking up two key wickets including the crucial dismissal of Indian captain Shubman Gill, who was trapped lbw for 20. Liam Dawson, playing his first Test since 2017, struck with only his seventh ball to remove a watchful Jaiswal, while Chris Woakes dismissed KL Rahul for 46.
However, England missed a key chance earlier when debutant Jamie Smith dropped Sudharsan on 20, which allowed the left-hander to rebuild and reach a well-earned 61 before falling to a Stokes bouncer.
India’s Injury Crisis Deepens: Pant, Reddy & Akash Deep Unavailable
India already came into the match without Nitish Kumar Reddy and Akash Deep, both ruled out due to injuries. Debutant Anshul Kamboj and all-rounder Shardul Thakur filled the void, but Pant’s exit has now put India under immense pressure, especially with no backup wicketkeeper in the XI.
Who Is Rishabh Pant? A Fighter with a Legacy of Comebacks
Rishabh Pant, now 27, is known not just for his explosive batting, but also for his comebacks. After a horrific car accident in 2022, Pant returned in 2024 stronger than ever, winning the T20 World Cup with India and becoming one of the most consistent performers across formats.
With 3,410 Test runs, 17 half-centuries, and 8 centuries to his name, Pant’s role in the middle order has been pivotal. His fearless strokeplay and ability to turn games single-handedly have made him a fan favorite and a match-winner for India.
What Pant’s Injury Means for the Match and the Series
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If Pant is unable to bat or keep, India’s balance will be severely affected.
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England will look to attack new batters like Thakur and Jadeja early on Day 2 with the second new ball.
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A series win for England would be historic, especially since no team has ever won at Old Trafford after choosing to field first — something Stokes hopes to overturn.
🔍 Expert Take: A Game-Changer Moment
Former England captain Michael Vaughan said,
“Ben Stokes has been England’s best bowler by a mile. But that Rishabh Pant injury could be the real game-changer. India will be gutted.”