India, July 23 -- A moment of pure agony unfolded in the middle during the fourth Test in Manchester, as Rishabh Pant had to be driven off the field in a mini-ambulance car after sustaining a serious blow to his right foot. The incident took place in the 68th over of India's innings, when Pant attempted an audacious reverse sweep to a fuller, slower delivery from Chris Woakes. The shot backfired badly, as the ball thudded into his boot, leaving the southpaw instantly writhing in pain.

There was a loud lbw appeal from England, which was turned down on-field, but the real concern quickly shifted to Pant's injury. Replays confirmed a faint under-edge had saved him, but that proved little consolation. He was visibly in distress, unable to st...