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As the fourth Test of the five-match series between England and India approaches, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has voiced strong concerns regarding Rishabh Pant‘s participation. Pant, who suffered a finger injury during the first day of the third Test at Lord’s, did not keep wickets for the rest of the match. Dhruv Jurel took over the gloves in his absence. While the Indian team management is reportedly eager to include Pant in the playing XI for the crucial Test in Manchester, Shastri believes it would be unwise to risk him unless he’s fully fit.
Ravi Shastri on why Rishabh Pant shouldn’t play Manchester Test
Shastri emphasized that Pant should not be selected for the Manchester Test unless he is fully fit to perform both his primary roles—wicketkeeping and batting. He explained that allowing Pant to play only as a batter could further aggravate his finger injury, especially during fielding without gloves, where the risk of impact is higher. According to Shastri, the gloves offer some protection, but if Pant takes the field without them and sustains another blow, it could worsen the condition. He stated clearly that a player can’t be picked to perform just one of his two responsibilities.
“He’ll have to field, and if he fields, that’ll be worse. With the gloves, at least there’s some protection. Without gloves, if he gets something that stings him there, then it won’t be very good. It’ll worsen the injury. He’ll have to keep and he’ll have to bat. He can’t do one of the two. If it’s a fracture, he should rest and be ready for The Oval,” said Shastri on ICC.
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Stellar form but fitness remains key
Pant has been in phenomenal form throughout the series. He etched history during the opening Test at Leeds by becoming only the second wicketkeeper to score centuries in both innings of a Test—134 in the first and 118 in the second. He followed it up with a gritty 65 in the second Test and a well-constructed 74 in the third Test, continuing to be a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup.
With 425 runs in three matches at an average of 70.83, Pant is currently the second-highest run-scorer in the series. His performances have been vital in keeping India competitive despite trailing 1-2 in the series.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Ajinkya Rahane hints at key tactical shift India must consider for Manchester Test
