(OT Webdesk)In a display of sheer determination, Rishabh Pant will bat on Day 5 of the Manchester Test against England despite suffering a fractured right foot on Day 1.
The injured wicketkeeper-batter had already contributed a vital half-century in the first innings, underscoring his commitment to the team’s cause.
India ended Day 4 trailing by 137 runs, with hopes of salvaging a draw resting on the shoulders of KL Rahul and Shubman Gill.
The duo stitched together a resilient 174-run partnership after openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan were dismissed in the very first over of the second innings.
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed Pant’s intent to bat, calling his resolve “inspirational.” Kotak also praised Gill’s standout performance in the series, where he has amassed 697 runs, and credited Rahul’s resilience under pressure.
India’s chances hinge on the middle order’s ability to withstand England’s attack and bat deep into Day 5.
With Pant’s grit and the top order’s form, the team remains hopeful of pulling off a draw in challenging conditions.
