India Vs Sri Lanka: Rishabh Pant Fit to Bat On Day 2 After Injury Scare, Confirms Batting Coach Sitanshu Kotak

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant retired hurt on the opening day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo after taking a blow to his left arm. Pant took the blow during the third session of play on Sunday, 23 August 2026.

Despite the injury scare, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed the player will be available. "Rishabh Pant will be fine to bat tomorrow," Kotak told reporters at the end of the day's play.

Blow To Left Arm

The incident occurred in the 58th over of India's innings off a short delivery from Sri Lankan pacer Lahiru Kumara. Pant attempted to pull the ball behind square but failed to connect, taking a direct hit to his left arm.

The Indian team physiotherapist rushed onto the field to apply an ice pack and tape to Pant's arm. However, the tape was soon removed as Pant continued to feel pain, and he walked off the field with the physiotherapist.

Pant retired hurt after scoring three runs off 15 balls. Ravindra Jadeja replaced him on the field to resume the innings and joined Devdutt Padikkal.

Padikkal Slams Brilliant Century

Padikkal played a superb innings of 117 runs off 168 balls to anchor India's innings on a challenging pitch. Sri Lanka dropped Padikkal on 0 and 1, but he made them pay for the missed chances to complete his second consecutive Test century. He showed immense patience and batted through the pressure as India lost wickets at regular intervals.

Kotak praised Padikkal for making the most of his opportunities. "Padikkal making most of the opportunities he got," Kotak said.

India lead the two-match series 1-0 after winning the opening Test in Galle by 165 runs. Padikkal had scored 167 in that match to set up the victory.