Rishabh Pant’s finger injury in the 3rd Test has raised serious concerns for Team India. The incident happened on Day 1 of the match at Lord’s, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the day.
To begin with, the injury occurred during the 34th over of England’s innings. Jasprit Bumrah bowled a delivery down the leg side. As always, Pant was on his toes and made a full-length dive to stop the ball. Unfortunately, the ball hit his left index finger hard.
At first, Pant looked okay. The physio came out, and he received treatment on the field. However, after a few overs, he was clearly in discomfort. Soon after, he walked off the field, holding his finger. This sudden exit worried fans and teammates alike.
As a result of Pant’s injury, substitute wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel came in to take over the gloves. According to the rules, a substitute is allowed to keep wickets if the original keeper is injured. However, he cannot bat or bowl unless he is part of the playing XI. Although Jurel handled the duties calmly, fans couldn’t stop thinking about Pant. His presence on the field brings confidence and energy, and his absence was felt.
Interestingly, the team seemed quite shaken. Cameras showed Gautam Gambhir, a senior mentor in the team, looking concerned as Pant walked back. It was a reminder of how much Pant means to this Indian side, both as a player and as a personality. Even commentators and fans across social media expressed worry, hoping the injury wasn’t too serious.
Meanwhile, the BCCI shared an official update. They’ve confirmed that Pant has hurt his left index finger and is now being monitored by medical staff. He is also receiving treatment from the team’s medical staff. So far, there’s no confirmation about whether he will return to the field or bat in India’s first innings. However, the team is expected to decide after a full medical assessment and possibly a scan.
To put things in perspective, Pant has been in great form this series. He hit two centuries in the first Test and followed it up with a crucial half-century in the second. More importantly, his fearless approach often gives India the upper hand.
Without him, India’s middle order could look weaker. On top of that, his sharp wicketkeeping skills and match awareness are not easy to replace. Dhruv Jurel is talented, but Pant’s experience brings something extra to the table. At the end of Day 1, England had scored 251/4, with Joe Root not out on 99. This means India will need solid batting depth when their turn comes. So, having Pant back would help.
Now, all eyes are on the medical update. If it’s a minor injury, Pant might return later in the match. But if the injury is more serious, India may need to play the rest of the Test without him.
Rishabh Pant’s Overall Wicket-Keeping Stats in Test Matches
| Metric | Value |
| Matches Played | 45 Tests |
| Innings Kept | 79 innings |
| Catches | 154 catches |
| Stumpings | 15 stumpings |
| Total Dismissals | 167 dismissals |
| Milestone Reached | 150+ Test catches |
While we wait, fans are keeping their fingers crossed for the best. After all, Rishabh Pant’s finger injury in the 3rd Test has come just months after his amazing return to international cricket. Hopefully, this is just a small bump in the road, and we’ll see him back with gloves and bat very soon.
