Ravi Shastri: “Rishabh Pant Shouldn’t Play If He Can’t Keep Wickets” Ahead of 4th England Test

Ravi Shastri, India’s former head coach, emphasized that Pant should not be included in the Manchester XI unless fully fit to keep wickets. He warned that playing as a specialist batter would require Pant to field—and that poses a high risk of aggravating his injury If he fields, that will be worse… Without gloves… it’ll worsen the injury.

Shastri added that only complete recovery—no fractures—should determine Pant’s participation: If it is a break… he rather rests it and comes fully fit at The Oval. He can’t do one of the two.

Injury Details & Series Importance

• Pant’s injured left index finger sidelined him from keeping at Lord’s; Jurel substituted
• India’s assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate noted that Pant could bat during practice, and if fit, will play—but keeping will be the final hurdle
• With India trailing, Pant’s batting form—425 Test runs at an average of 70.83—is vital

Balancing Fitness & Form

Ravi Shastri highlighted a tough choice for the management:

• Inclusion as specialist batsman without keeping could expose the injury further through fielding.
• Playing as wicketkeeper-batsman demands full recovery and fitness.
• If Pant rests, he may return refreshed for the series finale at The Oval—ensuring long-term fitness over immediate gain

Series Implications

• Pant’s explosive form has been a cornerstone for India.
• A mismanaged selection decision could jeopardize his long-term fitness and team balance.
• Strategy and patience may be key—either field him fully fit or let him recuperate fully before the final Test.

Final Take

Ravi Shastri’s advice echoes across team management: “One must not risk a match-winner’s long-term fitness for the immediate allure of a single Test.” With Pant’s fitness the pivot, India must weigh his explosive batting against the potential cost to his career and the team’s momentum.