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Will Rishabh Pant's Finger Injury Rule Him Out Of IND vs ENG 4th Test?

Debashis Sarangi

Rishabh Pant sustained a finger injury on day 1 [Source: AP]Rishabh Pant sustained a finger injury on day 1 [Source: AP]

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant sustained a finger injury in the ongoing third Test against England. The injury prevented him from keeping the wickets, with Dhruv Jurel donning the gloves on day 1 of the Test match. 

Rishabh Pant's Injury: What Do We Know So Far

Rishabh Pant was hit on his left thumb in the 34th over of England's first innings while diving to stop a pacy down-the-leg delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. 

He complained of serious discomfort, eventually being attended by Team India's physio before walking off the field. India replaced him with Dhruv Jurel, who went on to showcase exceptional keeping skills, taking three sharp catches. 

Later, the BCCI released an official statement, revealing Pant was under the supervision of the medical team. However, the apex body didn't disclose if Rishabh Pant was taken for scans after the blow. 

Pant was observed using his right hand (bottom hand) during a light net session before the start of day 2. Although he came out to bat after Shubman Gill's departure, Pant intentionally played a forehand-dominated game, putting less pressure on his bottom hand. 

He also got himself treated multiple times when he felt discomfort in his thumb during the first session on day 3. 

Thus, it seems he has yet to fully recover from the finger injury. Considering his importance for the national side, India might again ask Jurel to perform the wicketkeeper's duties in England's second innings. 

The Gap Between 3rd And 4th Test Might Give Pant The Time To Heal

What could work in Rishabh Pant's favour is the massive interval between the third Test and the penultimate affair. The Lord's Test finishes on July 14, while the next game kicks off on July 23 at Old Trafford. 

A hairline finger fracture typically takes around six to eight weeks to heal. However, as Pant came out to bat at his usual position, and there hasn't been an update of him undergoing scans, the chances of him carrying a fractured thumb are unlikely. 

Thus, he will likely get the required time to recover from the thumb injury and play the fourth Test in Manchester. In case the Indian think tank adopts a more cautious approach, and rest Pant, Dhruv Jurel will replace the southpaw in the playing XI.