India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the wrist by a short delivery from Sri Lanka fast bowler Lahiru Kumara. Pant was hit on his wrist while trying to play a pull shot and received treatment on the pitch. However after a lengthy delay, the wicket-keeper was forced to walk back to the dug out.
The incident occured in the 58th over of the Indian innings. The left-handed Pant was new to the crease facing his 15th delivery when he was hit on the glove. It caused him immediate discomfort. The India batter received treatment from the physio before walking off the field.
The physio applied an ice pack to Pant's hand to prevent swelling. After a lengthy delay, an attempt was made to tape his wrist, but it was quickly removed. Pant was then seen leaving the field, with Ravindra Jadeja coming in as the new batter.
The extent of Pant's injury was not immediately clear. A BCCI update on his condition is expected after an assessment to determine whether he can return to the field.
Pant retiring hurt is a major blow to India. The left-hander struck a vital half-century in the Galle Test in India's 165-run win. He is also the team's first choice wicketkeeper. However, India also have Dhruv Jurel in the XI, who can also keep wickets.
