India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will miss the fifth and final Test against England due to a fractured right foot, ruling him out of the decisive match beginning July 31, 2025, at The Oval. The BCCI Medical Team will continue to monitor his recovery, with best wishes extended for his swift return.
Why Jagadeesan Was Chosen
The Men’s Selection Committee has named Narayan Jagadeesan as Pant’s replacement in the Test squad. Jagadeesan, a prolific domestic performer from Tamil Nadu, earned his maiden Test call-up at age 29. He has accumulated over 3,300 first‑class runs, with 10 centuries and 14 fifties at an average around 47.50.
Expressing his satisfaction at the call-up, Jagadeesan shared he has been part of the “targeted players list,” indicating his selection is the result of sustained hard work and focus.
Jagadeesan’s Credentials & Context
Jagadeesan’s standout domestic season—including the record for most runs in a Vijay Hazare Trophy and a List‑A high score of 277—has pushed him ahead of other contenders. Despite Dhruv Jurel taking the gloves in Pant’s absence during the Manchester Test, India wanted a second specialist wicketkeeper available as back-up.
Though Jagadeesan is unlikely to feature in the XI (with Jurel again expected to keep), his inclusion bolsters squad depth and readiness ahead of the series finale at The Oval.
Pant’s Heroics & Impact of His Absence
Pant endured a fractured foot on Day 1 of the fourth Test in Manchester but continued playing—retiring hurt on 37, returning to score a gritty fifty, and helping India earn a draw. His heroics included centuries in both innings of the first Test and a series tally of 479 runs, making him India’s third-highest run-getter in the series, surpassing renowned wicket‑keepers in England.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Pant’s bravery and underlined support for injury substitutes, while Ben Stokes labeled criticism of the rules “ridiculous.”
Series Stakes & Selection Strategy
India currently trail England 2–1 in the series following the fourth Test draw in Manchester. The fifth Test at The Oval now becomes a series decider—India must win to equal the series, while England can clinch it with a victory.
Despite concerns around workload management—especially for Jasprit Bumrah, who has already played three Tests and carries a back injury—Gambhir suggested the final decision rests on performance fitness, with all frontline pacers fit and available.
What Jagadeesan Brings to the Table
- Consistency: Jagadeesan’s domestic numbers include a stellar Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign where he amassed 830 runs at average 138, showcasing temperament and scoring reliability.
- Backup security: His inclusion allows Dhruv Jurel to keep the gloves without panic and provides India a solid second wicketkeeper if needed.
- Mental readiness: Being on selectors’ radar and consistently performing reflects his preparedness for this opportunity.
Final Take: Squad Depth & a Crucial Opportunity
Jagadeesan’s call-up represents both reward for domestic excellence and shrewd squad planning by BCCI. While Rishabh Pant’s absence is a blow to India’s batting firepower and on-field leadership, Jagadeesan’s selection brings balance and security ahead of a high-stakes fifth Test.
With the series on the line, India’s updated squad—including captain Shubman Gill, wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, all‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, and spinners like Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav—looks to deliver in Pant’s absence at The Oval starting July 31, 2025.
Photo Source: The Hindu
