Big Blow for Team India: Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of Fifth Test vs England Due to Injury Setback

Big Blow for Team India: Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of Fifth Test vs England Due to Injury Setback

In a major blow to Team India ahead of the fifth and final Test against England, dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been officially ruled out due to injury concerns. The news, confirmed by team management and BCCI insiders, has come as a shock to fans who were hoping to see the flamboyant cricketer back in full flow during the crucial series decider.

What Happened to Rishabh Pant?

According to reports from the team physiotherapy unit, Pant has suffered a muscle strain in his right hamstring, which aggravated during a practice session ahead of the final Test. Though initial scans showed no fracture or major tear, the medical team advised against risking further injury—especially given Pant’s long road to recovery after his near-fatal car accident in 2022.

He had shown great form throughout the series, both with the gloves and the bat, proving once again why he remains one of India’s most valuable Test assets. His absence, however, creates a significant void, particularly in the middle order and behind the stumps.

BCCI Statement on Pant’s Injury

A senior BCCI official shared an official update:

“Rishabh Pant complained of discomfort during training and underwent a precautionary scan. While the injury is not serious, the medical team has advised rest and rehabilitation. He will not be part of the playing XI for the fifth Test.”

The decision was reportedly taken jointly by the BCCI medical staff, head coach Rahul Dravid, and captain Rohit Sharma, who agreed it was best not to rush Pant, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy and World Test Championship fixtures lined up later in the year.

Who Will Replace Pant in the Fifth Test?

With Pant out, the selectors have turned to KS Bharat and Dhruv Jurel—both promising options, but with limited Test experience. Bharat, having kept wickets in several Tests previously, is seen as the frontrunner due to his superior glovework and calm presence. However, Jurel’s recent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL have brought him into serious consideration as well.

Whichever player is selected will have big shoes to fill, especially considering Pant’s ability to turn the game on its head with his fearless strokeplay and audacious counters against pace and spin alike.

Pant’s Impact This Series

Before his unfortunate injury, Pant had a decent series:

• Matches Played: 4
• Runs Scored: 245
• Batting Average: 40.83
• Dismissals as Wicketkeeper: 15 (12 catches, 3 stumpings)

His aggressive counterattacks often helped India stabilize after collapses, and his presence in the lower middle order provided the team with balance and depth.

Fans React With Mixed Emotions

Social media erupted soon after the news broke. While fans poured in support for Pant’s speedy recovery, many expressed concern about the team’s stability going into the final Test:

• “Why now? Just when he was finding rhythm again.”
• “Pant’s absence will hurt, but better safe than sorry. Health first.”
• “KS Bharat needs to grab this opportunity with both gloves!”

Series Decider Just Got More Intense

The India vs England Test series is currently tied at 2-2, with both sides delivering world-class cricket in an enthralling contest. The final Test, scheduled to begin at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, is being billed as the ultimate decider. Without Pant, India’s batting lineup looks slightly more vulnerable, while England will be hoping to exploit the disruption and snatch a famous away win.

What’s Next for Rishabh Pant?

Pant will now undergo a week-long rehabilitation program under the guidance of NCA medical staff. While the injury isn’t believed to be long-term, the BCCI is expected to monitor his recovery closely before declaring his availability for the upcoming ODI and T20I series.

Rishabh Pant’s absence is a setback not just for India, but for cricket fans around the world who admire his fearless brand of play. However, with long-term goals in mind, resting him now is a smart move. As India gears up for a dramatic fifth Test without their star keeper, the question remains—who will rise to the occasion?

Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an already electrifying Test series. read about telecom