ENG Vs IND: Sanjiv Goenka’s Special Praise For Rishabh Pant’s Courageous Performance Amidst Foot Injury

When legends are spoken of in Indian cricket, it’s often about grand centuries, series-winning spells, or once-in-a-generation talent. But sometimes, a player rises not just by the numbers on the scoreboard, but by the sheer will they display in moments of adversity. Rishabh Pant’s performance in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford is one such chapter — one of courage, pain, and undeniable greatness.

A Blow That Could Have Broken Most: The Injury That Changed Everything

It all began on Day 1 of the Manchester Test. India, well-poised in their innings, was looking to capitalize on a solid foundation. Pant, batting fluently on 37, attempted a reverse sweep off England pacer Chris Woakes. In that very moment, fate struck cruelly — the ball ricocheted awkwardly and thudded into Pant’s right toe.

Visibly in pain, Pant grimaced and hobbled. The physio rushed in. Initial assessments looked worrying, but Pant, ever the gladiator, chose to carry on. He would eventually retire hurt for medical attention — and what the scans later revealed confirmed the worst: a fracture in the right toe.

For most players, this would have meant the end of the Test, if not the series. But for Pant, who has already conquered far greater hurdles — from the near-fatal car accident in late 2022 to his emotional return in 2024 — this was merely another challenge to be faced head-on.

The Comeback: A Heroic Fifty That Defied Logic

When Shardul Thakur fell and India stood at 314/6, the dressing room curtains parted again. And out limped Rishabh Pant.

The cricket world held its breath.

The sight of Pant dragging his foot, in visible pain, and still choosing to walk out against the fiery pace of Mark Wood and the swing of Woakes was an image etched in memory. There was no protective boot. No compromise. Only sheer grit.

What followed was an innings that will be remembered as much for its bravery as for its brilliance.

Pant, far from defensive, batted with aggression, intent, and trademark flair. He danced down the track, reverse-swept spinners, and pulled pacers with remarkable poise. All with a fractured toe.

His half-century — crafted in pain, powered by heart — came off just 62 balls. And when he finally fell for 74, the crowd at Old Trafford rose in a rare standing ovation for an Indian batter on English soil.

The Numbers Behind the Bravery: Record-Breaking Pant

While the moment was emotional, the stats only elevated the awe.

Pant’s tally in the England Test series had quietly crept into record-breaking territory. With 479 runs in the series at an average nearing 60, he now holds the following records:

Most runs by a wicketkeeper in a Test series in England (surpassing even legends like Adam Gilchrist).
Most 50+ scores by a visiting keeper in a single Test series in England.
Fastest 50 by an Indian wicketkeeper in England.

All this — while not even playing the fifth Test.

Sanjiv Goenka’s Tribute: A Billion Hearts Echoed

Among the first to publicly applaud Pant’s effort was Sanjiv Goenka, owner of the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. Having seen Pant as a fierce rival in the league, Goenka’s praise carried significant weight.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Goenka wrote:

“Battled a fractured toe, broke records, and stood tall for the team. Most runs by a keeper in a Test series in England. Most 50+ scores by a visiting keeper. The fight will be remembered. Speedy recovery, champ.”

These weren’t just compliments — they were a reflection of how Pant’s fight resonated beyond franchises, teams, and boundaries. Fans, commentators, and legends from across the cricketing globe shared Goenka’s sentiments.

BCCI Confirms the Blow: Pant Ruled Out of The Oval Test

The euphoria around Pant’s innings soon gave way to the somber confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI): the star wicketkeeper had been ruled out of the fifth and final Test of the series at The Oval.

In their official release, the BCCI stated:

“Rishabh Pant, who sustained a fracture to his right foot during the fourth Test against England in Manchester, has been ruled out of the fifth and final Test of the series. Our medical team continues to monitor his condition.”

It was a significant setback — not just for the team, but for the fans who had hoped to see more magic from Pant. Yet, the announcement came with an undertone of respect and gratitude. Few players had given as much to the cause as Pant had.

N Jagadeesan Steps In, Dhruv Jurel to Keep Wickets

With Pant ruled out, N Jagadeesan, the talented Tamil Nadu batter-wicketkeeper, was named as his replacement. While Jagadeesan brings a solid domestic record, the big gloves for the Oval will be worn by Dhruv Jurel, who already took over behind the stumps in the latter half of the Manchester Test.

For Jurel, it’s a massive opportunity. But for Pant’s fans, it’s also a reminder of how cruel sport can be — when the heart is willing, but the body says no.

Why This Series Matters in Pant’s Legacy

It’s easy to get lost in statistics and forget the context. But this series was crucial for Rishabh Pant.

After missing much of 2023 due to his recovery from the accident, 2024 saw his gradual return. The England series was his full-fledged comeback — his opportunity to remind the world why he was once seen as the natural heir to MS Dhoni.

And he didn’t just remind them. He roared back — louder, stronger, and more determined than ever.

His runs were not just runs. They were statements. Of intent. Of capability. Of resilience.

This series, especially the fourth Test, may not go down in history books as India’s most dominant. But it will always be remembered as the series where Rishabh Pant proved he wasn’t just back — he was better.

Reactions from the Cricketing Fraternity

Pant’s effort drew widespread reactions from cricket’s biggest voices.

Harsha Bhogle called him “India’s bravest cricketer in recent times.”
Michael Vaughan tweeted, “As a batsman and a fighter, Pant walks into any world XI.”
Sunil Gavaskar, usually critical of flamboyance, stated on air: “If there was a spirit of cricket award, give it to this man right now.”

Even former England keeper Matt Prior chimed in, saying, “It takes a special kind of crazy and brave to bat like that with a fracture. Hats off, Pant.”

A Setback, Not the End

Pant’s absence in the final Test is heartbreaking. Not just because of what he could have added, but because it denies fans one more sight of his magic in this series.

However, this injury — like the ones before it — won’t keep him down long.

The BCCI medical team has already begun Pant’s rehab protocol, with updates expected in the coming weeks. If his previous comeback is any indication, India can expect him to return fitter and hungrier — likely for the World Test Championship final or the Champions Trophy 2025, depending on India’s progress.

The Bigger Picture: What Pant’s Story Teaches Us

In a cricketing era dominated by analytics, power-hitting, and franchise leagues, Pant’s story is a reminder that heart, grit, and soul still matter.

He is not perfect. He is still prone to rash shots, hotheaded moments, and wild optimism. But he is authentic. He feels every moment. He plays with the passion of a child and the will of a warrior.

His innings at Old Trafford wasn’t just about runs — it was about reminding a cricket-loving nation what it means to wear the Indian jersey.