Manchester: India’s solid start to the fourth Test at Old Trafford was overshadowed by a potentially serious injury to Rishabh Pant, who was forced to retire hurt on Day 1 after sustaining a painful blow to his right foot. Former England captain Michael Atherton has warned the setback could be series-defining if the vice-captain fails to return.

The incident occurred late in the day’s play when Pant, batting confidently on 37 off 48 balls, attempted a reverse sweep against Chris Woakes. The delivery struck him flush on the toe, drawing an immediate LBW appeal. Although replays showed a faint inside edge, sparing him the dismissal, the damage had already been done.

Graphic injury sparks concern

Pant initially received treatment on the field, but with visible bleeding and swelling, he was eventually taken off on a golf cart marked as an ambulance. The sight raised immediate concerns in the Indian camp, particularly considering this is his second injury in the series. In the third Test at Lord’s, Pant had suffered a finger injury while keeping, which had already limited his availability with the gloves.

An official medical update is expected on Day 2, but the visible discomfort and severity of the blow have raised fears that Pant might be ruled out of the remainder of the series.

Atherton: “A massive blow to India”

Speaking to Sky Cricket, Michael Atherton described the moment as pivotal. “If he is out of the game—out of the series—that’s a massive blow to India and puts the day in a different light. That 264 for four becomes 264 for five, and with the new ball due, there’s a potential for England to wrap things up quickly tomorrow,” Atherton said.

He added that Pant’s injury was clearly serious. “You don’t get carted off unless it’s serious. If he does return, he could change the game. But that uncertainty looms large right now.”

Match summary: India’s strong start, England’s fightback

India began the day strongly, putting up an unbeaten 94-run opening stand. However, England bounced back before tea:

  • Chris Woakes dismissed KL Rahul, breaking the opening partnership.

  • Liam Dawson, playing his first Test since 2017, claimed Yashasvi Jaiswal.

  • Ben Stokes, the England skipper, removed Shubman Gill and later Sai Sudharsan, who impressed with a calm half-century on his return to the side.

    • Despite finishing the day on a promising 264 for 4, Pant’s injury has introduced significant uncertainty into India’s plans.

    Sudharsan: “We’ll get more clarity tomorrow”

    Speaking at the post-day press conference, Sai Sudharsan confirmed that the team was awaiting scan results. “He was in a lot of pain, definitely, but he’s gone for scans. We’ll probably get the formal update tomorrow,” he said.

    He acknowledged Pant’s contribution and the gap his absence would create: “He was batting really well today, and we lose a batter if he doesn’t return. But at the same time, the batters out there and the all-rounders in the side will do their best to bat long and absorb the pressure.”

    India’s plans hang in balance

    Pant’s condition now holds critical importance for India’s fortunes in the match. As the team looks to consolidate its advantage on Day 2, much depends on whether their dynamic wicketkeeper-batter can return to the crease. Until then, his absence remains the biggest cloud over what was otherwise a promising opening day.