Pant ruled out of England series: Gambhir
'Rishabh has already been ruled out of the series,' Gambhir said, ending speculation about a potential return for the final Test. But the former opener reserved special words for the injured cricketer, recalling the unforgettable moment when Pant batted despite a fractured foot. 'What he's done for the team, and for the country, is something generations will speak of. Batting with a broken foot isn't something many have done. Any amount of praise won't do justice to that courage.'
Gambhir added that Pant's contribution has laid a strong emotional and cultural foundation within the current Indian team setup. 'This team's character is being built on efforts like those. His fighting spirit has inspired the entire group,' he said.
While Pant's absence will be felt, the Indian camp received a major boost on the fitness front, with Gambhir confirming that all fast bowlers are currently fit and available for selection. 'There are no injury cases among the quicks. Everyone is match-fit,' he stated.
With India trailing 1-2 in the series and one match to go, the team will head into the Oval Test with momentum from their gritty fourth-Test draw and the assurance of a full-strength pace attack—even if one of their biggest match-winners watches from the sidelines.
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