On Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Indian wicketkeeper‑batter Rishabh Pant staged a sensational comeback - returning to bat despite a fractured toe sustained on Day 1. After retiring hurt on 37, Pant hobbled back to the crease and scored a defiant 54 off 75 balls, including two sixes and three fours, to lift India’s total to 358 all‑out. His 19th Test fifty drew a standing ovation from the Old Trafford crowd.

Reports confirmed the injury was serious enough to rule him out of his wicket‑keeping duties for the remainder of the Test, though he remained available as a batter.

England captain Ben Stokes delivered a masterclass with the ball, claiming his first five‑wicket haul in eight years, while Jofra Archer picked up three, including Pant’s wicket. Nonetheless, Pant’s gritty innings ensured India didn’t collapse under pressure.

Former players and fans praised Pant’s courage. Ravi Shastri called him the “ultimate team man,” highlighting how his emotion-fueled knock lifted the entire team.

By close of play, England had recovered well - Ben Duckett (94) and Zak Crawley (84) shared a 166‑run opening stand, finishing at 225/2, trailing by just 133 runs.