ENG vs IND 2025: Ravi Shastri opines on Rishabh Pant's injury and availability for fourth Test
"I don't think he should go in as a specialist batter if he can't keep because he will have to field. If he fields, that will be worse," said Shastri.
Former India cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri shared his views on whether wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant should feature in the upcoming fourth Test against England, which is slated to be held at the Old Trafford, Manchester. Shastri emphasized that Pant should not be included if he is unable to play as a wicketkeeper as well as a batter, and not just the latter.
For the unversed, Pant injured his finger during the third Test at Lord’s, leading to Dhruv Jurel stepping in as the stand-in wicketkeeper. Despite the injury, Pant still batted in both innings, but couldn't really impress in his outings. Shastri noted that if Pant cannot fulfil his wicketkeeping duties, he would have to field instead, a move that could pose a risk to his injury.
“I don't think he should go in as a specialist batter if he can't keep because he will have to field. If he fields, that will be worse. With the gloves, at least there is some protection. Without gloves, if he gets something that stings in there, then it won't be very good. It'll only worsen the injury,” Shastri said in an Instagram video by the ICC.
Pant won't be allowed to substitute his wicketkeeping to Jurel
The cricketer-turned-commentator also stressed the importance of thoroughly assessing Pant’s injury. He suggested that if there is a fracture or break, it would be wiser for Pant to rest and recover fully, aiming to return fit for the next match at The Oval, rather than risking further damage by playing prematurely.
“You've got to see if it is a break. If it is a break or a fracture, then he rather rests it and comes fully fit at The Oval. He won't get a substitute now. Now they'll know that he has been injured. When you pick the team for the next Test, he'll have to keep, and he'll have to bat,” the Mumbai-born said.
Ryan ten Doeschate provides crucial update on Pant's injury
Pant, who is also India's vice-captain, has been one of their standout performers on the tour, scoring 425 runs at an impressive average of 70.83 across six innings. After a narrow 22-run defeat in the third Test at Lord’s, India now trail 2-1 in the five-match series. A victory in the crucial fourth Test is essential, as a loss would hand England the series win before the final match.
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