India’s Test squad for the ongoing five-match series against England could soon see a change, with wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan likely to be called up as a replacement for the injured Rishabh Pant.
Rishabh Pant Injured Again During England Test Series
Pant, who recently returned to the squad after a long injury layoff, was hurt again during the fourth Test at Old Trafford. While batting, a full delivery from Chris Woakes struck him directly on the toe. Though Pant got a slight inside edge and was not given out, he did not come out to bat again after the incident.
Subsequent scans confirmed a toe fracture, ruling him out of action for at least six weeks. This is a major blow for India, as Pant had shown promise with the bat and gloves since his return.
Ishan Kishan Set for Comeback in Test Cricket
According to media reports, Ishan Kishan is the front-runner to replace Pant in the remaining matches of the Test series. While the BCCI has yet to make an official announcement, multiple outlets suggest the left-handed batter is already being considered.
Kishan is currently in England, playing County cricket for Nottinghamshire. In impressive early form, the 27-year-old scored two fifties in his first two first-class games for the side. However, he missed the third match due to a minor injury, as reported by The Indian Express.
Kishan’s red-ball record also supports his case. He played his last Test in 2023 during India’s tour of the West Indies and has since been on the fringes of the squad. With an average of 78—currently the highest for an Indian batter in the series—Kishan could provide much-needed stability in the middle order along with reliable glovework behind the stumps.
As India prepares for the final leg of the series, fans and selectors alike will be keeping a close eye on Kishan’s fitness and form. An official update from the BCCI is expected soon.
