In a massive boost for Team India, Rishabh Pant has been declared fully fit and will return to his complete duties as wicketkeeper for the crucial fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, starting July 23. With India trailing 2-1 in the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Pant’s availability comes at a perfect time as the visitors aim to level the series.
Pant had made a significant impact with the bat earlier in the series, notably scoring a gritty 74 in the first innings of the Lord’s Test. However, he was unable to keep wickets during that match due to a hand injury sustained on Day 1. The incident occurred in the 34th over when Jasprit Bumrah sent a delivery down the leg side. Pant dived to his left in an attempt to stop the ball, but it struck his left index finger, forcing him to leave the field in visible discomfort.
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Dhruv Jurel took over as the substitute wicketkeeper for the remainder of the match, while Pant continued to contribute with the bat despite being in pain. He managed just nine runs in the second innings, falling to Jofra Archer, as India narrowly lost by 22 runs, allowing England to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
If calm had a sound, it would be this 🏏🔊#RP17 pic.twitter.com/q5EAxVA98W
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) July 20, 2025
Rishabh Pant has got his wicketkeeping gloves out. Should be good to go for Manchester Test on Wednesday
— Arani Basu (@AraniBasuTOI) July 21, 2025
Rishabh Pant is ready with the big gloves. pic.twitter.com/FBEpB5xcGM
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) July 21, 2025
The good news surfaced when Pant was spotted at India’s training session on Monday, July 21, wearing his wicketkeeping gloves and fully engaged in preparation. A Times of India journalist confirmed the development on X, noting, “Rishabh Pant has got his wicketkeeping gloves out. Should be good to go for the Manchester Test on Wednesday.”
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On Sunday, Pant had already hinted at his return by posting a 31-second video, showing him batting, fielding, and even playing football without any signs of discomfort. The footage reassured fans and team management alike that India’s vice-captain is not just match-fit but mentally ready to take on the dual responsibilities once again.
With Pant back behind the stumps, India will not only regain their first-choice keeper but also benefit from his leadership and dynamic presence—a crucial factor heading into a must-win Test.
