Rishabh Pant Misses Day 2 Action at Lord’s Due to Finger Injury

India had a worrying sight during Day 1 at Lord’s, with Rishabh Pant not taking the field due to pain in his left index finger. The team’s vice-captain, who had been impressive with the bat this series, picked up the injury on Day 1 while attempting a sharp stop behind the stumps.

It happened during the 34th over, when Jasprit Bumrah fired one down the leg side. Pant dived to his left to try and collect the ball, but it struck him flush on the tip of his index finger. He immediately winced in pain and was attended to by the physio. After a few sprays and a brief attempt to shake it off, Pant signaled to be replaced and left the field at the end of the over. Initially, Pant received treatment near the boundary rope before heading back to the dressing room. The discomfort was serious enough that Dhruv Jurel came on as substitute wicketkeeper — and he continued in that role on the second morning as well. 

Pant did report to the ground the next morning and was seen going through light drills with assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak. However, it was clear he wasn’t at full fitness. While trying to shadow bat in a short session, Pant relied solely on his bottom (right) hand, avoiding any pressure on the injured finger. After a brief stint, he returned to the pavilion. The BCCI issued a media update on Pant’s condition, saying, “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.” 

The board had also confirmed the initial setback on Day 1, stating, “Team India vice-captain Rishabh Pant got hit on his left index finger. He is receiving treatment at the moment and under the supervision of the medical team. Dhruv Jurel is currently keeping wickets in Rishabh's absence.” 

The nature of the injury — a blow sustained during play — means that if Pant recovers in time, he will be allowed to bat at his usual No. 5 position, without any penalty in terms of batting order. That will be a huge relief for India, given Pant’s form in the series so far. In four innings, the left-hander has already scored two centuries and a fifty, making him one of India’s most crucial players with the bat. With the series finely poised and India needing their best players fit and firing, the team will be hoping their charismatic vice-captain is able to bounce back swiftly. 

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