Team India has been dealt a major setback ahead of the crucial fourth Test against England, with promising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a knee injury. BCCI provided an update on Reddy and Arshdeep injury as problems continue to mount for India ahead of Old Trafford Test.
Earlier reports emerged that Reddy underwent scans that confirmed ligament damage, and the BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his condition before making a final call on his availability.
The injury blow comes at a critical juncture in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, with the five-match series currently hanging in the balance. India trails 2-1 and is looking to bounce back in the fourth Test, which begins Wednesday at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Reddy, who has shown promise with both bat and ball in recent months, was noticeably absent during the team’s recent visit to Manchester United and also missed the optional practice session, adding further weight to concerns about his fitness. His absence now creates an unwanted void in India’s lower-middle order and bowling reserves.
The Indian camp is already grappling with multiple injury concerns. Lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s workload is being carefully managed, Arshdeep Singh has suffered a cut on his bowling hand, and Akash Deep remains an unlikely starter as he continues to recover from a fitness issue.
In response to the growing list of unavailable players, young pacer Anshul Kamboj has joined the team in Manchester as a backup for Arshdeep. However, with key players in doubt and Reddy’s situation hanging in the balance, the Indian team management faces a complex challenge in fielding a balanced XI for the must-win encounter.
IND Vs ENG: Rishabh Pant Looks Sharp During Practice Session Ahead Of Crucial 4th Test At Old Trafford; Video
As the high-stakes fourth Test between India and England approaches, all eyes were on the Indian team’s net session at Old Trafford and Rishabh Pant certainly stole the spotlight. The Indian vice-captain looked in sharp touch, displaying impressive footwork, solid timing, and an air of confidence that bodes well for the visitors heading into the must-win encounter.
Pant, who has been gradually regaining rhythm since his return to international cricket, appeared focused and energised during the session. Batting fluently against the bowlers, he played with a mix of caution and flair. Pant’s body language indicated he is in good headspace ahead of this pivotal match.
India trail the five-match series 2-1 after a close defeat at Lord’s. With the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy on the line, the fourth Test presents an opportunity for India to level the series before the final showdown. Pant’s form, especially in the absence of experienced figures like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will be key to India’s hopes of bouncing back.
The Old Trafford surface is expected to offer bounce and some movement early on, conditions in which Pant’s aggressive yet calculated style can be a game-changer. With the pressure mounting on both sides, India will be banking on Pant’s spark to ignite a turnaround.
As the countdown to the 4th Test continues, Indian fans can take comfort in the sight of a razor-sharp Rishabh Pant, ready to anchor the fightback in one of the most anticipated matches of the summer.
