IND vs ENG Test: 'How do you break a man who's defeated death?' – Aakash Chopra hails Rishabh Pant's grit at Old Trafford
Former India opener
Aakash Chopra
has delivered a stirring tribute to
Rishabh Pant
, praising the wicketkeeper-batter's unbreakable spirit after he batted through pain on Day 2 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, with a fractured toe.
Pant, who made a fighting 54 off 75 balls, walked out despite the injury and gave India valuable runs before they were bowled out for 358 in their first innings.
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England finished the day at 225/2, trailing by 133 runs. But the biggest talking point remained Pant's courage — something Chopra compared to legendary moments in Indian cricket history.
How and why Rishabh Pant's England tour could come to an abrupt end due to toe fracture
'The first talking point is Rishabh Pant and his spirit. He reminded me of Anil bhai, who bowled with a broken jaw in Antigua and picked up a wicket,' Chopra said on his YouTube channel. 'It wasn't necessary, but he did it. Here, Rishabh wasn't able to walk or stand and was taken out in a cart. He said he would bat. How do you break a guy whose spirit is unbreakable?'
Poll
What do you think of Rishabh Pant's performance despite his injury?
Inspiring and commendable
Irresponsible for risking injury
A true testament to sportsmanship
Not worth the risk
Chopra went on to highlight the significance of Pant's return, especially after surviving a life-threatening car crash in December 2022.
'If someone has defeated death, how will he accept defeat over such small things?' he added.
Importantly, Chopra clarified that Pant's decision was voluntary.
'No one would've forced him. In such situations, sport isn't life — life is much bigger. The choice was his.'
He lauded Pant for his patriotism and resolve: 'When a player is standing against all odds, he thinks he needs to do it for his country. Mad, mad respect. He won my heart — and not only mine. Everyone at Old Trafford stood and applauded him.'
Chopra also expressed dismay at England's aggressive tactics.
'I wasn't surprised but slightly sad that England tried to hit his legs. Still, he played a few good shots despite that.'
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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