India received a major boost ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford as captain Shubman Gill confirmed that Rishabh Pant’s finger injury is not serious. The wicketkeeper-batter had picked up a knock on his left index finger during the third Test at Lord’s, raising concerns over his availability for the remainder of the series. However, after undergoing scans and medical evaluation, Pant has been cleared of any major damage and is expected to be fit for the Manchester Test starting July 23.
The injury occurred on the opening day of the third Test when Pant attempted to collect a delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. The ball awkwardly rose and struck him on the glove, immediately causing visible discomfort. Despite the pain, Pant continued to field briefly before being replaced by Dhruv Jurel behind the stumps. He later returned to bat in both innings, showcasing his trademark aggression and composure under pressure.
In the first innings, Pant scored a fluent 74, stabilizing India’s middle order after a shaky start. Though he wasn’t at full fitness, his contribution was vital in keeping India within reach of England’s first-innings total. He adjusted his grip to manage the injury while batting, reflecting both resilience and adaptability. In the second innings as well, Pant showed no signs of backing down, which underscored his importance to the team.
Following the match, which India narrowly lost by 22 runs, Shubman Gill addressed the media and provided clarity on Pant’s condition. “Rishabh went for scans. There is no major injury, so he should be fine for the fourth Test in Manchester,” said Gill. He acknowledged that Pant had been in pain but expressed full confidence in his recovery with over a week to rest and rehabilitate.
Pant has been one of India’s standout performers in the series so far. With 425 runs across six innings, he is the second-highest run-getter behind Gill himself. His aggressive batting in the middle order has provided India with the momentum and counter-attacking edge needed in challenging English conditions. Additionally, his presence behind the stumps adds value through his sharp glovework and on-field energy.
The fourth Test in Manchester carries high stakes, with India trailing 1–2 in the five-match series. A fit and firing Pant will be essential if India hopes to level the series before heading into the final match. His ability to change the course of a game within a single session makes him one of the most vital cogs in the Indian lineup.
Team medical staff are expected to manage his workload carefully in the days leading up to the match, ensuring he remains fully fit without aggravating the injury. As things stand, there is no need for a replacement, and Pant is on track to reclaim his position in the playing XI.
With his injury now deemed minor, Rishabh Pant’s availability for the fourth Test comes as a major relief to the Indian camp. The team will be hoping that their dynamic wicketkeeper-batter can continue his rich vein of form and help script a comeback in the high-pressure clash at Old Trafford.