Day 1 of the third Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy at Lord’s brought mixed fortunes for India, as vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant suffered a finger injury while fielding during England’s first innings.
The incident occurred in the 34th over when Pant dived down the leg side to stop a wayward delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. While he managed to half-stop the ball and prevent a boundary, it struck him flush on the fingertips of his left hand.
Pant was in visible pain and received on-field treatment for several minutes. Though he continued briefly, his discomfort was clear, and he eventually walked off the field during the next over. His departure brought Dhruv Jurel into the spotlight.
The young wicketkeeper from Rajasthan Royals, who had been carrying drinks moments earlier, quickly suited up and took over the gloves for India.
Can Jurel Bat?
Jurel’s substitution behind the stumps is permitted under MCC’s amended Laws of Cricket, which since 2017 allow for a substitute wicketkeeper in the case of injury or illness—provided the umpires approve.
However, standard substitutes like Jurel are not allowed to bat or bowl in place of the injured player; only concussion or COVID-19 replacements carry that exception.
Pant, India’s second-highest run-scorer in the series with two centuries and a half-century in four innings, is a key figure in the side—not just for his runs but for his tactical energy behind the stumps. His absence, even temporary, is a blow to India’s rhythm.
While initial signs suggest he may be fit to bat in the first innings, a full medical assessment will determine his availability.
Earlier in the day, England won the toss and elected to bat first. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett added 44 for the first wicket before Nitish Kumar Reddy broke through with a double strike in his very first over. Joe Root and Ollie Pope then steadied the innings, guiding England past the 100-run mark with a solid partnership that ensured the hosts ended the session on a stable note.
