It was more than just a cricket match. It was a display of heart, courage, and unshakable determination. When Rishabh Pant walked out to bat with a broken foot, he didn’t just score runs — he won millions of hearts.
And now, former India opener Gautam Gambhir says it’s a moment that will go down in history.
“He batted with a broken foot. I think generations to come will talk about it,” Gambhir said during a broadcast, visibly moved by Pant’s effort.
Pant sustained a suspected fractured toe after attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes on Day 1. He was visibly unable to stand and had to be taken off the field by a buggy.
On Day 2, despite obvious pain and mobility issues, Pant hobbled back to bat — scoring a crucial half-century (around 54 runs off 75 balls) that proved pivotal for India’s innings
Gambhir called Pant’s decision to bat with a broken foot a moment that will define India’s team culture. He said that such acts of bravery leave a mark that outlasts scoreboards or records.
“He put his hand up when the team needed him. Not many players have the heart to do what Rishabh did,” Gambhir noted in post-match comments.
Pant’s heroic act also sparked a bigger debate — whether Test cricket should allow injury substitutes for players who suffer serious blows. Gambhir supported the idea, especially in cases where a player clearly cannot continue.
However, England captain Ben Stokes dismissed the idea.
England captain Ben Stokes called the conversation “ridiculous,” saying:
“Injuries are part of the game. You deal with what you have. We can’t keep changing the rules every time someone gets hurt.”
Still, many former players and fans disagreed with Stokes. They believe that Pant’s example shows why rules might need to evolve, not to make cricket softer, but to protect athletes’ long-term health.
After scans confirmed a fractured toe, Pant was ruled out of the final Test at The Oval and advised at least six weeks of recovery.
Rishabh Pant’s knock will go down as one of the grittiest moments in Indian Test history. He not only saved India from collapse but also gave a masterclass in mental strength, courage, and commitment to the team.
As Gautam Gambhir said, this isn’t just about cricket — it’s about character. And it’s something fans, players, and future generations will remember for a very long time.
