Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of Final Test; Jagadeesan Named Replacement
India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the fifth and final Test match against England at The Oval, beginning July 31, due to a fractured right foot. The injury occurred during the fourth Test at Manchester when Pant attempted a reverse sweep and had to retire hurt. Although he returned the next day to complete a courageous half-century, he was unable to take the field afterward and missed the remainder of the match.
Pant’s injury was confirmed following medical scans, and he is now under the care of the BCCI’s medical team. As a result, the Men’s Selection Committee has named Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batsman Narayan Jagadeesan as his replacement for the final Test.
Jagadeesan, who has been part of India’s domestic circuit, was reportedly informed of his selection while training in Coimbatore. While Dhruv Jurel is expected to retain the primary wicketkeeping role, Jagadeesan’s inclusion provides much-needed depth to the squad ahead of the crucial decider.
India currently leads the five-match Test series 2–1. The fourth Test ended in a draw after England’s middle order managed to resist the Indian attack, keeping the series alive and setting the stage for a thrilling finish in London.
Pant’s absence will be a setback for India, given his impactful performances with the bat and behind the stumps. However, team management expressed confidence in the bench strength and wished Pant a swift recovery.
