ENG vs IND 2025: 'Zakhmi hoon, magar...' - Sakshi Pant's emotional Instagram post after Rishabh Pant returned to bat after injury

Rishabh Pant’s courageous innings on Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford drew widespread praise, including a heartfelt message from his sister, Sakshi Pant. Despite suffering a fractured right toe on Day 1 while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes, Pant displayed remarkable grit by returning to bat. With India already missing his services behind the stumps, Dhruv Jurel took over wicketkeeping duties as announced by the BCCI, Pant’s decision to contribute with the bat showcased his determination and resilience during a high-stakes match against England.

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Pant walked in at No. 8 to a loud reception from the Manchester crowd after Shardul Thakur’s dismissal. Resuming on his overnight score of 37 from 48 balls, the left-handed batter pushed on to complete his 18th Test half-century. He ended with a valiant 54 from 75 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes. His fighting spirit, despite the injury, served as an inspiration and underlined his value to the Indian Test side in challenging conditions.

“Zakhmi hoon, magar khel raha hoon. Kyunki haar maanna meri fitrat mein nahi.” (Despite being injured, I am playing. Because giving up is not in my nature), Sakshi Pant posted on Instagram.

England trail India by 133 in the ongoing ENG vs IND 4th Test

At the close of play on Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, England finished strongly at 225/2 in 46 overs, trailing India by 133 runs. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett gave England a flying start, putting up a commanding 166-run partnership. Crawley scored an aggressive 84 off 113 balls before falling to Ravindra Jadeja, while Duckett followed shortly after with a fluent 94, caught by substitute Dhruv Jurel off debutant Anshul Kamboj, who picked up his maiden Test wicket. England's top order looked in complete control on a batting-friendly surface.

Following the dismissals, Ollie Pope and Joe Root steadied the innings, ending unbeaten on 20 and 11 respectively. The Indian bowling attack struggled to maintain pressure, with Siraj and Thakur going wicketless and expensive. Bumrah remained economical, but lacked breakthroughs. England capitalized on India’s ineffective bowling to set up a solid foundation heading into Day 3. With Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and a deep batting lineup yet to come, the hosts are well-positioned to push for a first-innings lead.