Shardul Thakur highlighted Pant’s return as another extraordinary effort, showcasing his unwavering commitment and the crucial impact he brings in key moments.
Shardul Thakur Praises Rishabh Pant’s Gritty Fifty on One Foot
Fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur lauded Rishabh Pant for his heroic effort after the wicketkeeper-batter returned to bat with a fractured foot and rescued India from a precarious position on Day 2 of the Manchester Test. Pant, who had retired hurt on Day 1 after injuring himself attempting a reverse sweep, came back on Thursday and scored a courageous 54 off 75 balls, laced with three fours and two sixes, before being bowled by Jofra Archer.
Shardul Thakur revealed that the team had always intended for Pant to bat if he could, crediting the medical staff for making it happen. “I think it was always our plan (to try and bring Pant to the middle). There were quite a few efforts from the medical team. So, yes, kudos to them,” he said, emphasizing Pant’s vital contribution to India’s first-innings total of 358.
Pant’s determination impressed his teammates, with Thakur drawing parallels to Graeme Smith’s legendary effort for South Africa. “Everyone was very excited to see how he would approach his innings. And I think what he showed today, the passion he showed for the team is unmatched. We’ve seen such moments in the past—like when Graeme Smith batted with a fractured hand.”
Shardul Thakur further added, “Rishabh’s positivity and his grit keeps him away from all the pains. His pain-bearing capacity is very high. If he is in pain, it is a big injury.”
Pant resumed from his overnight score of 37, pushing through visible discomfort to notch up a vital half-century, reaffirming his reputation as one of India’s toughest and most spirited cricketers.
‘There is a fracture, news is already out”
Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur shed light on the uncertainty surrounding Rishabh Pant’s availability on the morning of Day 2, revealing that the wicketkeeper-batter hadn’t traveled with the team to the ground and was initially absent during warm-ups.
“That is his call and the medical team’s call. In the morning, we thought maybe he would be able to bat. Earlier, I had to touch his feet to see if he was able to walk properly. If he is able to walk, then we can talk about batting,” said Thakur.
He added that when the team was warming up, Pant’s absence left them unsure about his participation. “When we reached the ground and were warming up, he was not there. And then I went for batting. I don’t know what happened after that.”
Thakur also confirmed the severity of Pant’s injury, revealing that the batter had indeed suffered a fracture. “I think there is a fracture. The news is already out. There is a fracture and it can’t be doubted,” he stated, underlining the extent of pain Pant endured to produce his brave innings.
