The moment Rishabh Pant limped onto the field at Old Trafford, a wave of emotion swept through the crowd. Despite carrying a fractured toe and a swollen foot, Pant walked in to bat for India in the 4th Test against England, and the entire stadium stood and applauded.
Just a day earlier, Pant was seen grimacing in pain, bleeding, and being driven off the field in a mini-cart after being struck on the foot while attempting a reverse sweep. Scans later confirmed a fracture. Most thought his Test was over.
But on Day 2, to the shock and delight of fans, Pant padded up and stepped out again For The Team — barely able to walk, but burning with intent.
The Old Trafford crowd responded in kind: they stood, clapped, and even chanted his name. Social media exploded. From fans to former cricketers, everyone hailed his bravery.
🗣️ “The heart of a warrior. You can’t teach this,” tweeted a former Indian cricketer.
Pant couldn’t run between the wickets — he didn’t even try. He stood his ground and fought with the bat, blocking, swinging, and doing everything he could to keep India moving forward.
Alongside Washington Sundar, he added important runs, helping India reach 321/6 at lunch. His presence alone lifted team morale.
📊 India at Lunch – Day 2, 4th Test
| Team | Score | Lead Status |
|---|---|---|
| India | 321/6 (LUNCH) | Building strong first innings total |
| England | Yet to bat | Waiting for India to finish innings |
The BCCI had earlier confirmed in their update that Pant would be unable to keep wickets — and Dhruv Jurel will replace him — but he’d be available to bat if the team needed.
Even England’s fielders could be seen nodding in admiration.
As Pant took guard, cameras caught teammates and staff applauding from the dressing room. Commentators called it the “moment of the series.”
For a player who has fought back from a life-threatening car accident, battled rehab, and now pushed through a toe fracture — this comeback feels nothing short of heroic.
