Pant, the keeper of India's hopes as series approaches business end

As it often happens during a long Test series, the heavy workload gradually starts taking a toll as the days progress. Expectedly after three Tests ~ all of which went into the fifth day, there are quite a few bruised bodies in both India and England camps.

- Sanjjeev K Samyal

Test cricket is the most demanding of formats and the first three matches of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy have been gruelling, high-intensity contests that demand full commitment.

The nine-day break ahead of the fourth Test will see players rest their mind and limbs. But whether even this recovery period is enough for key players Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep is something the Indian camp will be sweating over.

Pant injured his finger while keeping wicket in the first innings and Akash Deep was seen gingerly walking off the field during the second innings accompanied by the team’s physio for treatment. The reason for Akash Deep’s discomfort is not known as he returned to the field soon after and came out to bat as night ‘watchman on the fourth evening. Bumrah’s workload management will also come into focus once again.

Even though India suffered a narrow defeat in the third Test, they would be happy with their combination at Lord’s. Ideally, they would want to retain the same eleven for the fourth Test at Manchester.

Captain Shubman Gill is optimistic Pant will be fit in time. “Rishabh went for scans and there is no major injury there,” Gill told reporters. “I think he should be fine for the next Test match.”

That ‘should be’ needs to be erased and replaced with certainty as quickly as possible.