The second and final match of the two-Test series between India and Sri Lanka is currently underway at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and decided to bat first without hesitation. As the final session of the opening day got underway, star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was batting on a personal score of three runs when he attempted a shot and injured his wrist. Experiencing severe pain, he consulted the team physio and ultimately decided to retire hurt and walk off the field.
Pant Injured While Attempting a Shot Off Lahiru Kumara
At the start of the final session on day one of the Colombo Test, Rishabh Pant was at the crease alongside Devdutt Padikkal, having just begun his innings. During the 58th inning of India's batting, Sri Lankan fast bowler Lahiru Kumara delivered a short ball. Pant attempted a pull shot but failed to make contact with the bat, and the ball struck near his wrist before deflecting towards the leg side near the keeper. Pant immediately looked in considerable pain as the ball hit the wrist bone, causing swelling to appear.
The physio rushed onto the field with an ice pack to treat the swelling. After a lengthy delay, tape was applied to Pant's wrist for a short duration before being removed. Following a discussion with the on-field umpire, Pant chose to leave the field retired hurt. During his brief stay at the crease, Pant scored three runs from 15 deliveries faced, leaving the team dugout concerned about his physical condition.
Shubman Gill and Devdutt Padikkal Steady the Innings
Earlier in the innings, India's opening batsmen, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, failed to convert their starts into substantial scores. Rahul was dismissed for 18 runs, while Jaiswal lost his wicket after scoring 45 runs. Following these early setbacks, Indian captain Shubman Gill partnered with Devdutt Padikkal to not only stabilize the innings but also lay the foundation for a strong total. The duo shared a vital 120-run partnership for the third wicket. Captain Gill batted resolutely and completed his half-century before getting out.
India made a single change to their playing XI for this Test match, handing Saransh Jain his international Test debut in place of Kuldeep Yadav, who missed out due to illness. While the team management evaluates the extent of the wicketkeeper's wrist injury, the visitors aim to consolidate their position in this crucial closing match of the series.
