India Reaches 264 for 4 at Day 1 But Suffers Big Setback with Rishabh Pant Getting Injured

The first day of the fourth Test match between England and India in Manchester was a rollercoaster ride. The Indian team put up a good score of 264 for four wickets at the end of Day 1, but the whole day was dominated by the serious injury inflicted on Rishabh Pant. It was scary as it was for Indian cricket fans when Pant suffered a blow while attempting a reverse sweep on the fourth delivery of the 68th over. Chris Woakes was the bowler and Pant attempted to play his signature aggressive shot but missed it. The ball hit his right foot hard after glancing off slightly and the damage appeared severe right from the beginning.

Pant was in visible pain as he fell to the ground and was unable to even stand. The injury resulted in swelling and bleeding and the moment turned tense when the team's medical staff had to call an ambulance onto the ground. The match was halted as all watched with bated breath. Pant was retired injured and Ravindra Jadeja took his place at the crease. This development sparked worry not just for this game but also for the remainder of the series.

In spite of the alarming Pant India's batting appeared to be good for most part of the day. Once England won the toss and decided to bowl first Indian openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a good start to the team. They contributed a vital 94-run stand for the opening wicket. Jaiswal again proved himself to be a consistent player by scoring 58 runs whereas Rahul appeared to be in his comfort zone while playing his 46-ball knock before being getting dismissed.

In the wake of Sai Sudharsan's fine start, he further pressed on and played a classy innings of 61. His composed attitude and steady batting ensured that even after the fall of the openers India had momentum. With the progression of the day, India ticked the scoreboard while also having wickets in hand. But just as things were going smoothly the tragic injury to Pant put the brakes on India's steady journey.

Before the day's play was halted because of inadequate light Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur were working in India's favor. They were both unbeaten on 19 runs apiece and the side seemed well poised for a massive score. If the weather is good and India can carry on the same way the side will be hoping to take the score well beyond 400 on Day 2.

On the bowling front England struggled hard but only achieved four wickets on a pitch that appeared to suit the batters. Ben Stokes was the best among the English bowlers with fine figures of 2 for 47. Chris Woakes and James Anderson struggled through the day but wickets proved to be expensive.

This match is of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and being contested at the historic Old Trafford ground. It is of high stakes in the series. India choosing to bat first after being asked to bat by England appeared to be a good decision particularly with their top order contributing nicely. The unfortunate event surrounding Rishabh Pant though took slightly away from otherwise good day for India.

The mood at Old Trafford was charged for the entire day with both sets of fans applauding both teams. The crowd fell silent for the Pant injury but quickly returned to being heard once the Indian batters showed no signs of fading and maintaining their concentration. The pitch appeared to be fine for batting and if the weather continues to be fine more runs can be anticipated on Day 2.

The Indian squad now expects Rishabh Pant to recover quickly. His absence could prove to be a massive setback particularly given his recent form and contribution in the middle order. Whether or not he will be able to play further in the match or be replaced remains to be determined.