Ind vs Eng 4th Test: Rishabh Pant battles toe fracture to slam gritty fifty in Manchester Test

Rishabh Pant comes on to resume his innings after going off injured the previous day on day two (Pic: AFP)

Rishabh Pant on Thursday showed nerves of steel as he brought up a hard-fought half-century on day two of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. Driving a full and wide delivery through the vacant extra-cover region, Pant reached his fifty under circumstances that demanded both physical courage and mental resilience.

The Indian vice-captain had retired hurt on 37 the previous afternoon after inside-edging a sharp Chris Woakes yorker onto his right foot. Clearly in pain, Pant limped off the field, casting doubts over his further participation in the match.

However, on Thursday morning, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a statement clarifying Pant's condition. "Rishabh Pant, who sustained an injury to his right foot on day one of the Manchester Test, will not be performing wicketkeeping duties for the remainder of the match," read the BCCI's statement. "Dhruv Jurel will assume the role of wicketkeeper. Despite his injury, Rishabh Pant has joined the team on day two and will be available to bat as per team requirements."

With India at 314 for six following the dismissal of Shardul Thakur for 41, Pant emerged from the dressing room slowly and stiffly, descending the steps with visible discomfort. As runners are no longer permitted in international cricket, he had to rely solely on his own mobility, limited though it was.

He took guard to face England captain Ben Stokes, initially feeling his way back with a tentative prod at a wide delivery. The next ball beat him completely. Yet Pant, never one to back down from a challenge, dug in, adjusted to the rhythm of the game, and began to find his range.

By lunch, he was unbeaten on fifty, pushing India's total to 321 for six. His innings was not flamboyant in the traditional Pant style but was instead anchored in resolve, patience, and a refusal to give in to discomfort.

At just 27, Pant has already established himself as one of India's most influential Test players. With more than 450 runs in the series, he has consistently delivered under pressure. His ability to read the situation and adapt, even while nursing injury, speaks volumes of his value to the side.

England lead the five-match series 2-1, and the fourth Test holds significant weight in determining the final outcome.