TimesofIndia.com in London: Indian fans at Lord’s were visibly relieved when they saw Rishabh Pant walking towards the nets — bat in hand, pads and gloves on — just moments before India bowled out England for 387 on Day 2 of the third Test at Lord’s. Pant was accompanied by batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, physio Yogesh Pamar and the team’s throwdown specialists.Pant, who had injured his left index finger on the opening day of the Lord’s Test, spent over 15 minutes in the nets facing throwdowns. He appeared to be in visible discomfort but showed a clear intent to bat.
The wicketkeeper-batter was seen talking to himself, possibly psyching himself up through the pain. He looked uncomfortable during the session, frequently inspecting his left hand, shaking it, and showing signs of distress.On his way to the nets, Pant politely apologised to fans for not stopping for photos. However, on his way back, he made up for it — signing autographs and posing for plenty of selfies with a smile.Pant did not keep wickets on Day 2. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel donned the gloves for India.Later, the BCCI confirmed that Pant would not be keeping wickets. As a result, Jurel continued behind the stumps.In a social media post, the BCCI said: “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.”
Pant’s injury occurred during the second session on Day 1. In the 34th over, Pant copped a blow to the fingertips of his left hand while attempting to stop a Jasprit Bumrah delivery that was fired down the leg side to Ollie Pope.Having dived to stop the ball, Pant grimaced in pain as he received treatment from the physio. Even after having his fingers heavily taped, he was visibly uncomfortable. Though he tried to complete the over, he eventually walked off for further treatment once it ended.
