BCCI Weighs Painkillers vs. Pride as Pant Faces Toe Fracture Battle

Indian cricket was left stunned today with ace wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant diagnosed with a broken right toe, which he had suffered on the opening day of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. The severity of the injury rules Pant out of the remainder of the current match along with the final Test at The Oval, with authorities recommending at least six weeks of rest.

 

Despite the setback, Indian team management and BCCI medical team are considering the option of whether Pant could attempt to bat gallantly, though with the help of heavy painkillers. Sources say he is still being observed to be able to walk, and hence the possibility of an on-field comeback seems low.

 

Key Highlights Rishabh Pant injured his right toe attempting a reverse sweep from Chris Woakes when batting on 37.

 

MRI scans revealed a fracture; Pant has been told six weeks' rest.

 

The BCCI medical team is checking if he can bat after taking painkillers, yet Pant currently can barely walk unaided.

 

Ishan Kishan to be summoned as replacement for 5th Test; Dhruv Jurel to stand in as wicket-keeper for the remainder of the ongoing match.

 

India completes Day 1 on 264/4, suffering a huge setback to their batting strength and Asia Cup buildup.

 

Even senior cricketers and commentators had serious objections, calling this a "series-defining setback" for India.

 

Source: ESPNcricinfo, News18, Moneycontrol, CNBC TV18, NDTV