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With the England vs India Test series delicately poised and India trailing 1-2, every selection and update carries immense significance. A major focal point leading up to the pivotal fourth Test in Manchester is the fitness of Rishabh Pant, who remains uncertain for full wicketkeeping duties after injuring his finger during the third Test at Lord’s. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the media, providing key insights into Pant’s readiness and the team’s approach as they look to stay alive in the series.
Rishabh Pant’s pain and resilience in the Lord’s Test
Pant’s ordeal began on Day 1 at Lord’s, when a sharp blow to his left index finger forced him off the field, making it impossible to continue as wicketkeeper. Young Dhruv Jurel stepped in to don the gloves, while Pant heroically returned to bat, scoring a vital 74 runs in the first innings and a determined—though less impactful—9 in the second. His courage did not go unnoticed, but the incident exposed a vulnerability India would hope to avoid repeating.
Ten Doeschate’s update provides a mix of optimism and realism. “He will bat in Manchester before the Test. I don’t think you’re gonna keep Rishabh out of the Test no matter what. He batted with quite a lot of pain in the third Test, and it’s only going to get easier on his finger,” said ten Doeschate in pre match press conference. The message is clear: while Pant’s fighting spirit pushes him toward the playing eleven, the management refuses to rush his recovery.
India’s wicketkeeping decision still in the balance
The primary concern hangs over Pant’s wicketkeeping. Ten Doeschate emphasized, “Keeping is the last part of the process. We need to make sure that he can keep—we don’t want to go through that again where we have to replace the keeper halfway through an innings”. The team’s approach is calculated, prioritizing a fully fit Pant over a risky participation that could compromise both his and the team’s performance.
Thursday’s practice session in Beckenham saw Pant abstain from training, the team opting to give his finger as much recovery time as possible. This measured caution illustrates the awareness within the camp of Pant’s irreplaceable dual role as an explosive batter and reliable wicketkeeper. “He rested today, was trying to give the finger as long as possible, and hopefully, he’s good to go in Manchester in the first session. He is in the equation, but I mean if he’s fit, he plays the next Test and does both,” ten Doeschate concluded.
As the series reaches a decisive point, India fans will be hoping Pant is cleared for both batting and wicketkeeping. His presence is more than just statistical; it is a morale boost and a tactical advantage. For now, all eyes turn to Manchester, where Pant’s fitness—and India’s chances—are being watched with bated breath.
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