Pant Injury Update: Jurel to Retain Wicket-Keeping Role as Doubt Clouds India Star's Fitness

Concerns have arisen regarding the fitness of Rishabh Pant, as the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) issued an update ahead of Day 2 of the third Test between England and India at Lord's. Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, sustained an injury to his index finger on the first day of the match, leaving his participation in doubt.

Rishabh Pant was seen in batting practice but appeared uncomfortable with his injured finger.

Before the start of play, Pant was observed practicing his batting, facing deliveries from batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. However, he seemed uneasy, repeatedly looking at and shaking his left hand. This raised concerns about his ability to continue in the match.

Based on Pant's discomfort, Dhruv Jurel is expected to continue as the wicketkeeper for India, as was later confirmed by the BCCI. England resumed their innings on Day 2 at 251/4, with Joe Root and Ben Stokes at the crease.

Dhruv Jurel is set to continue wicket-keeping duties.

The BCCI stated in a social media post: "Rishabh Pant is still recovering from the hit on his left index finger. The BCCI medical team continues to monitor his progress. Dhruv Jurel will continue to keep wickets on Day 2."

On Day 1, the BCCI had initially reported that Pant was receiving treatment and was under medical supervision, with Jurel taking over the wicket-keeping duties.

The incident occurred during the second session when Pant was struck on his left index finger while attempting to stop a Jasprit Bumrah delivery. He received immediate treatment from the team physio and had his fingers taped. Although he attempted to continue, he eventually left the field for further medical attention.

Team head coach Gautam Gambhir and Kotak also assessed Pant's injury later in the day.

Prior to this match, Pant had been in impressive form during the tour, scoring 342 runs in two matches at an average of 85.50, including two centuries in the series opener.