Day 2 of the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford took a dramatic turn when Rishabh Pant was struck on the right toe by a fierce yorker from Chris Woakes. The impact was immediate—and brutal. Pant collapsed in pain and had to be taken off the field in an ambulance. By noon, medical reports confirmed the worst: a fractured toe. He was advised 6 to 8 weeks of rest, effectively ruling him out of the match and possibly the series.
‘No Chance of Return’—Or So We Thought
With Pant’s exit, hopes dimmed. Most assumed his Test was over. The idea of him returning to bat was about as likely as Mohammed Siraj hitting six sixes in an over—absolutely none. But just when doubt filled the air, the BCCI issued a surprising update on social media: “Pant may bat based on team requirements.”
It sounded unbelievable. But then, to everyone’s shock, Pant limped out to the middle after India lost their sixth wicket.
Batting on One Leg—And One Heart Full of Fire
The crowd—yes, even the English—stood and roared as Pant hobbled in. Battling immense pain, he stood tall and batted like a warrior. Not only did he survive, he scored. Pant struck a six off Jofra Archer and a crisp boundary off Ben Stokes. England tried to exploit the injury, repeatedly aiming yorkers at his fractured foot—but Pant stayed defiant.
He faced 27 deliveries post-injury and ended with a gutsy 54. His knock helped India cross the 350-run mark before Archer finally knocked over his off-stump with a peach of a delivery.
Refuses Help: “Main Kar Lunga”
As he slowly made his way back, two teammates—Akash Deep and Kuldeep Yadav—ran to help him off the field. But Pant shook them off. “Main kar lunga,” he said firmly. “I’ll do it myself.” Step by painful step, he climbed the dressing room stairs alone.
An Emotional Embrace From Gambhir and Jadeja
At the top, waiting for him, were India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Without saying a word, they pulled Pant into a heartfelt hug. It was more than appreciation—it was respect for a cricketer who refused to back down, no matter the odds.
Another Chapter in Cricket’s Book of Courage
Pant’s bravery now joins a legendary list. Think of Graeme Smith walking in with a broken hand, Brett Lee bleeding during a World Cup knockout, or Anil Kumble bowling with a fractured jaw to dismiss Brian Lara. These are moments where grit triumphed over pain. And now, Rishabh Pant has earned his place among them.
More Than a Knock—A Statement of Spirit
Rishabh Pant’s 54 wasn’t just about runs. It was a message. A reminder of what it means to wear the Indian jersey. His never-say-die attitude inspired a nation and elevated his stature from star player to cricketing hero.
No matter how this Test ends, Manchester 2025 will forever be remembered as the day Rishabh Pant batted through a fracture and won hearts around the world.
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