IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Why Rishabh Pant Is Not Keeping On Day 2 At Lord's?- Explained

Add as a preferred source on Google

IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Team India's vice-captain Rishabh Pant was notably absent from the field as the second day's play of the third Test between India and England resumed at Lord's.

The dynamic wicketkeeper-batter has been dealing with discomfort in his left index finger, an injury he sustained on Day 1, and as a result, did not don the gloves on Friday, 11th July. Dhruv Jurel continued behind the stumps in Pant's absence.

Pant had injured his finger while attempting to stop a wayward delivery down the leg side from Jasprit Bumrah in the 34th over of England's innings. The ball struck him on the tip of his index finger as he dived, and he appeared to be in considerable pain immediately after the incident. Despite quick treatment with pain-relief sprays by the physio, Pant signaled to come off and left the field after the over concluded.

On Friday morning, Pant did arrive at the ground and underwent light drills under the supervision of assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak. However, he looked visibly uncomfortable and even practised a few shadow strokes using just his right hand before heading back to the dressing room, further raising concerns about the extent of his injury.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released an update confirming Pant's condition. "Rishabh Pant is still recovering from the hit on his left index finger. The BCCI medical team continues to monitor his progress. Dhruv Jurel will continue to keep wickets on Day 2," the board stated in a media release.

Encouragingly, the fact that Pant has not been sent for scans suggests that a fracture is unlikely. India will be hopeful of having him available with the bat, especially considering that his injury was sustained during play. If fit, he will be permitted to bat at his regular No. 5 position.

Pant has been in red-hot form throughout the series, notching up two centuries and a fifty in just four innings, making his recovery crucial for India's chances at Lord's.