Former cricketer Dinesh Karthik expressed hope that it was Rishabh Pant’s personal decision to continue batting despite a fractured toe during Day 2 of the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England. Pant had injured his right foot after being struck by a delivery on Day 1 at Old Trafford, Manchester.
Although he looked in considerable pain and had retired hurt on 37 off 48 balls, Pant returned to bat the next day, showing remarkable determination. He went on to complete a gritty half-century, scoring 54 off 75 balls. Karthik pointed out that Pant would have known the risks of worsening the injury if struck again on the same toe.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, the former wicketkeeper praised Pant’s courageous call to resume his innings.
“I hope it was him who took that decision, that he wanted to go out there and play, then it’s upon him. He is an adult, he knows the responsibility, and he wanted to give everything. He was aware of what the repercussions could be in case if he did get another ball, and it almost happened, it just took the back pad a little bit.”
Michael Vaughan Reacts To Rishabh Pant Battling Injury To Bat On Day 2 Of 4th Test
In the same conversation, former England captain Michael Vaughan shared his concern over Rishabh Pant batting with a fractured toe. He pointed out that since Test cricket doesn’t allow injury substitutions, players like Pant are often forced to continue playing even when carrying serious injuries. The cricketer-turned-commentator said:
“No, because it’s Rishabh. But I do worry about things like that because of the situation that we have in Test cricket, where we don’t allow subs for someone who has broken a foot. And these players, Ben Stokes would be the same, they are walking out for their country because they are making sure their country are getting everything they possibly can.”
Vaughan remarked that Rishabh Pant’s courageous performance would leave a lasting impression on the English crowd.
“This crowd love him, and he will be remembered for a long time for whatever reasons because he is skilful and flamboyant, but he will be remembered in the UK for strolling out limping at Old Trafford, for that kind of heart that he has shown,” he added.
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