Rishabh Pant revealed a picture of his plastered foot as he continues to recover from the fracture he suffered on Day 1 of the fourth Test against England.
Pant’s Defiance: A Story in Two Parts
India’s dynamic vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, recently shared his deep frustration with fans. He posted a stark photo to Instagram showing his foot encased in thick plaster, with the caption, “I hate this sooo much.” This raw moment of vulnerability, however, came just days after a public display of nearly superhuman courage and grit.
The Agonizing Blow at Old Trafford
The incident unfolded on Day 1 of the epic fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. With the Pataudi Trophy on the line, a searing delivery struck Pant on his left foot. The explosive keeper-batsman, known for his flamboyant, fearless style, collapsed in agonizing pain. He had been in blistering form, having scored centuries in both innings of the first Test to cement his reputation.
A Critical Decision
A golf cart soon whisked Pant away for scans. Later that night, the BCCI medical team delivered a grim prognosis: a fracture requiring at least six weeks of rest. But with the team in a precarious position, management asked a crucial question: Could he bat through the pain, if needed? The answer was a cautious, “He could.” The decision ultimately rested with Pant.
A Hero’s Hobbled Return
In a stunning turn of events, Pant did return. After Shardul Thakur fell, the crowd watched as Pant, in full batting gear, hobbled down the long pavilion steps. Defying medical advice and fueled by painkillers, he resumed his innings. He transformed his game from an aggressive dasher to a gritty defender, eventually scoring a valiant 54 runs off 75 balls.
Echoes of History
Pant’s incredible bravery immortalized him in the annals of cricket history. His act drew immediate comparisons to other legendary, pain-defying feats. Fans recalled Anil Kumble bowling with a broken jaw in Antigua and Graeme Smith batting with a broken hand in Sydney. This was Pant’s moment, a defining performance that showcased his immense character.
The Foundation of a New India
Ultimately, his efforts helped India secure a draw against all odds. Following the match, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir heaped praise on the vice-captain. “Any amount of praise is not enough for him,” Gambhir stated emphatically. “Generations to come will talk about this. They should talk about the man who batted with a broken foot for his country. The character of this team will be built on that.”
Rishabh Pant vents his frustration on social media with his foot injury
Only a few weeks after suffering a foot injury, Rishabh Pant posted another image of his wounded foot on Wednesday, August 13.
The Indian test vice-captain hinted at the emotional toll and growing dissatisfaction of his protracted recuperation by adding an emoji to the photo on his Instagram story.
Pant commented, “I hate this so much,” after sharing a photo of his broken toe on his Instagram story.
