Rishabh Pant Determined to Bat Despite Injury
Manchester, Jul 26 (PTI) – Despite suffering a fractured right foot, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will bat for India on day five of the ongoing Test, confirmed batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. Pant earlier scored a gritty half-century post-injury, although he hasn't kept wickets since day one.
Kotak confirmed after day four, "Rishabh will bat tomorrow."
Rahul and Gill Anchor India's Fightback
India trails England by 137 runs, buoyed by a vital 174-run stand between K L Rahul and Shubman Gill. The team finished day four at 174 for two. Kotak praised the pair's belief and determination in handling the fifth-day conditions.
> "A five day wicket will have wear and tear but it is playing fine barring the odd ball turning. They batted with a lot of belief and determination… Absolutely brilliant the way they batted," – Kotak
Gill's Mindset Evolution Pays Dividends
Kotak highlighted Shubman Gill's progress as a batsman, crediting the young player's disciplined shot selection and sharper judgment at the crease.
Despite rotation at the number three spot, Kotak downplayed concerns, emphasizing confidence in team options.
Ben Stokes' Fitness Key for England
England is monitoring captain Ben Stokes' bowling fitness, with coach Marcus Trescothick hoping for overnight recovery but acknowledging the team may rely more on Joe Root if needed.
This report includes content sourced from Press Trust of India (PTI), edited for clarity and context.
