India wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant retired hurt during the fourth Test against England at Manchester's Old Trafford after suffering a right foot injury on the opening day. The incident occurred when Pant inside-edged an attempted reverse sweep off Chris Woakes onto his right foot, causing immediate swelling and bleeding.

The ICC reported that the BCCI released an official statement confirming that "Rishabh Pant was hit on his right foot while batting on Day 1 of the Manchester Test. He was taken for scans from the stadium. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress."

𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲:

Rishabh Pant was hit on his right foot while batting on Day 1 of the Manchester Test.

He was taken for scans from the stadium.

The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress.

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 23, 2025

According to ESPNCricinfo, Pant's foot was swollen and he appeared in significant pain after the impact. He survived the lbw appeal and subsequent review but his inability to put weight on the foot raised immediate concerns for the Indian team management.

Pant's injury comes at a crucial time with the Champions Trophy 2025 nearing. He is the second-best run-getter in the ongoing England series with 425 runs in six innings. His possible absence will be a huge setback to India especially when they face Bangladesh in their first match of the tournament.

This latest setback adds to Pant's injury troubles during the England tour. The vice-captain had previously sustained a finger injury during the Lord's Test, where he was hit on his left index finger while keeping wickets. The BCCI had earlier confirmed that Pant received treatment for that injury with Dhruv Jurel taking over wicketkeeping duties temporarily.

Despite the finger injury, Indian captain Shubman Gill had stated before the Manchester Test that "Pant should be fine," after scans revealed "no major injury" to his left hand, according to ESPNCricinfo. However, this new foot injury presents fresh complications for both the current Test and his Champions Trophy preparations.

Pant's return to bat in the Manchester Test depends on the medical team's scan results under ICC playing rules. If medically cleared, he may continue his innings. However, the visible swelling and his clear discomfort suggest a serious injury that might keep him out for a long time.

The timing is quite unfortunate given his recent form, and his role in the Indian batting lineup. His strong batting and reliable wicketkeeping is crucial to the Indian limited-overs team, particularly with the Champions Trophy being a significant opportunity for India to claim a title on home soil.

Team management faces difficult decisions regarding backup options if Pant's injury proves serious. Dhruv Jurel has been a good backup keeper in the previous matches, but he has no international experience, raising a few questions in terms of playing high-stakes tournament cricket.