Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the fifth and final Test against England scheduled at The Oval from July 31 after suffering a fractured toe in Manchester. The fourth Test ended in a draw and Pant’s injury was one of the talking points of the game. He was struck on the foot while playing a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes during India’s first innings.
Scans later revealed a toe fracture and the wicketkeeper-batter was advised six weeks of rest. But despite being in pain, Pant walked out the next morning to continue his innings. He went on to score a fighting fifty, which played a big role in helping India avoid defeat.
Though England lead the series 2-1, India are now set to play the decider without Rishabh Pant. Before leaving the squad, he shared a message with his teammates, asking them to give it their all in the final match.
Gautam Gambhir Praises Rishabh Pant’s Courage
India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the team after the Manchester Test and spoke about Pant’s effort. Known for his tough and serious nature, Gambhir took a moment to appreciate Pant’s decision to bat despite his injury.
"The foundation of this Test team will be based on what Rishabh has done for this team. I hate talking about individuals. I have never spoken about individuals in a team sport. You have not only inspired this dressing room, but the next generation. This is what you have done and the legacy you have created for yourself and for everyone in this dressing room. So very well done, and the country will always be proud of you," Gambhir said as quoted in the video shared on Instagram.
Pant, in turn, left a touching message for his teammates before heading home.
"The only message I'm going to give my team is, let's win it, guys. Let's do it for the country. Just a gesture from my side. Whatever it takes to make our team win or put the team forward instead of thinking about the personal goal, that was all for me," Pant said.
He also thanked the team for backing him and spoke about how special it feels to represent India.
"Definitely, it's been amazing the way they backed me. The team is under pressure. Everything is there, but when the whole country stand behind you for the same cause, that is something. That emotion is difficult to explain, how proud I feel to represent my country," he added.
N Jagadeesan Called Up as Rishabh Pant’s Replacement
With Pant out, the selectors have named N Jagadeesan as his replacement in the squad. While Dhruv Jurel is expected to be the first-choice wicket-keeper for the final Test, Jagadeesan’s call-up is a reward for his strong performances in domestic cricket.
The Tamil Nadu batter has scored 3,373 runs in first-class cricket at an average of 47.50. His record includes 10 centuries and 14 fifties. This is Jagadeesan’s first call-up to the Indian Test squad.
India will now head to The Oval with the series on the line and plenty of motivation.
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