In a significant turn of events during the ongoing fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, India’s star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of keeping duties after fracturing his right toe. However, the team has confirmed that Pant remains available to bat, albeit under medical observation. The gloves have now been handed to Dhruv Jurel, who steps up into a crucial role as India seeks to level the series.
The incident occurred on Day 1 when Pant, batting fluently on 37, was struck on the foot by a Chris Woakes delivery while attempting a reverse sweep. The immediate pain was evident as he hobbled off the field, assisted by medical staff. Scans later confirmed a metatarsal fracture, putting him out of action for wicketkeeping for at least six to eight weeks.
Despite the setback, Pant made a gritty return to the crease on Day 2 wearing a protective boot. He resumed his innings and scored a brave half-century, helping stabilize India’s innings at a crucial juncture. His determination to bat, despite medical advice suggesting rest, drew widespread admiration from fans and teammates alike.
With Pant unavailable behind the stumps, young Dhruv Jurel has been assigned wicketkeeping responsibilities. This isn’t Jurel’s first brush with the role—he had previously kept wickets briefly during the third Test when Pant suffered a finger injury. His sharp reflexes and close-in glovework earned praise from experts, including former cricketer Dinesh Karthik, who remarked that Jurel kept “much closer to the stumps and with more discipline.”
The transition in keeping duties has implications beyond just fielding. India will now need to reshuffle their lower-middle order to ensure balance in both batting and bowling. Pant, although injured, remains a vital batting asset and is expected to play a role in the second innings if required.
This injury adds to India’s growing list of fitness concerns, with pacers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh already sidelined. The BCCI is reportedly exploring backup options for the final Test at The Oval. Tamil Nadu’s N Jagadeesan is the frontrunner to be flown in as cover, pending visa and travel clearances.
For Dhruv Jurel, this opportunity is monumental. At just 24, the Agra-born cricketer has risen steadily through domestic circuits and the IPL, earning a reputation for cool-headedness under pressure. Now, with India chasing a series equalizer, he holds a critical role behind the stumps and in the lower order.
As India look ahead to the fifth and final Test, Pant’s limited role and Jurel’s promotion reflect the team’s adaptability under adversity. The series, poised delicately at 2-1 in England’s favor, could now hinge on how well India manages these disruptions and turns youthful promise into match-winning performances.