Sanjay Manjrekar revealed that it was Rishabh Pant’s own call to bat with a fractured foot, expressing surprise that Pant came in early rather than waiting to bat last.
Sanjay Manjrekar: Rishabh Pant’s Courageous Decision to Bat Was Entirely His Own
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes that Rishabh Pant made the brave decision to bat on Day 2 of the fourth Test against England entirely on his own, despite suffering a fracture in his right foot on Day 1. Manjrekar dismissed any notion that head coach Gautam Gambhir or captain Shubman Gill pressured Pant to come out and help India in this must-win match.
Rishabh Pant injured himself attempting a reverse sweep to a yorker from Chris Woakes late on Day 1, visibly in pain before being taken off the field and rushed to hospital for scans. With reports suggesting a six-week rest, his England tour seemed effectively over.
However, Pant stunned everyone by walking out to bat after Shardul Thakur’s dismissal early on Day 2. He battled through the pain to complete a vital half-century, adding 17 runs to his overnight 37 as India crossed 350.
Speaking to JioStar at lunch, Manjrekar admitted surprise at Pant’s decision, having initially expected him to bat only at the innings’ end. He praised Pant’s exceptional hand-eye coordination and grit, recalling other legendary players who performed wonders despite injuries. Manjrekar warned England to remain cautious despite Pant’s obvious discomfort, highlighting his unique ability to dominate even when physically limited.
Manjrekar Compares Pant’s Grit to Kumble’s Legendary Bravery
Sanjay Manjrekar likened Rishabh Pant’s brave outing in Manchester to one of Indian cricket’s most iconic moments — Anil Kumble bowling with a broken jaw in Antigua, 2002. Just like Kumble, who refused surgery and delivered 14 overs after being struck by a Mervyn Dillon bouncer, Pant too chose to defy pain, walking in to bat with a fractured toe.
Manjrekar emphasized that Pant’s decision seemed entirely personal, not driven by any team request or pressure. “I don’t think anyone in the dressing room could’ve asked Pant to bat. It was his own call,” Manjrekar said, highlighting Pant’s fierce commitment to the Indian Test team.
He noted how Pant’s determination stemmed from the uncertainty of his future appearances. “He probably thought — I might not get another chance soon, so I might as well give everything here.” Manjrekar felt the sheer weight of Test cricket — especially in England — was a major motivator for Pant. Unlike in white-ball formats, Test cricket brings out the best in Pant, the former cricketer observed, suggesting it’s this version of the game where Pant truly wants to leave his legacy.
