Rishabh Pant has been cleared to resume batting for India on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka after retiring hurt on the opening day. The wicketkeeper-batter was forced to leave the field after being struck on the wrist while attempting a pull shot. The setback raised concerns over his availability for the remainder of the innings.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak provided a positive update on Pant's condition after the day's play. Kotak confirmed that the left-hander had been cleared to bat and would resume his innings as the situation demanded. The update comes as a relief for India, with Pant an important part of their middle order.
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.
Seated in the dugout, Pant looked in excruciating pain as the physio continue treating his hand. He even avoided applauding to celebrated Devdutt Padikkal's ton, instead using the other hand to hit the seat next to him.
