In one of the most courageous performances of his career, Rishabh Pant defied a painful toe fracture to score a crucial 54 in India’s first innings against England at Old Trafford. Not only did he help lift India’s total to a competitive 358, but he also equaled Virender Sehwag’s record for the most Test sixes by an Indian, with 90.
Pant suffered the injury on Day 1 after a sharp yorker struck him on the right foot. Scans confirmed a fracture, and the initial assumption was that he would miss the remainder of the Test and possibly the series. However, in a stunning display of resolve, Pant walked out to bat the next morning with a heavily strapped toe and visible discomfort.
Despite the injury, he showcased his typical aggressive flair. He struck three boundaries and two towering sixes—one of which took him level with Sehwag’s iconic record. This feat is even more remarkable considering Pant achieved it in only 47 Test matches, compared to Sehwag’s 103.
Pant’s return to the field was met with a standing ovation. His courage was not only a personal milestone but also a lift for Team India, who had lost wickets in quick succession before his arrival. His 54-run knock came at a crucial time, helping India reach a competitive first-innings total and offering much-needed momentum.
Beyond the sixes, Pant’s innings also saw him become India’s highest run-scorer in the World Test Championship era, overtaking Rohit Sharma. He now has over 2,700 runs in the cycle, and his consistency has been a major asset for India in red-ball cricket.
Given the nature of his injury, Pant was excused from wicketkeeping duties. Dhruv Jurel took the gloves while Pant prepared to contribute as a batter alone if needed in the second innings.
This act of bravery has drawn widespread admiration from fans, former cricketers, and analysts alike. Many called it one of the grittiest innings in recent memory, especially from a wicketkeeper—a role that demands physical resilience.
At stumps on Day 2, England were 225/2, trailing by 133 runs. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett had laid a strong foundation with an opening stand of 182, but Pant’s efforts earlier in the day ensured India had a total worth defending.
With the series finely balanced and the Test progressing into a pivotal third day, Pant’s heroic half-century might prove decisive. It wasn’t just a matter of runs—it was a show of character, leadership, and sheer will.
As the Test continues, one thing is certain: Rishabh Pant’s name will be etched in the memories of this match not only for his sixes or his milestones—but for the extraordinary heart he showed under pressure and pain.