Injured wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is set to walk out and bat on the final day of the fourth Test against England, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed on Saturday. Pant, who suffered a fractured right foot on the opening day, had already showcased his resilience when he hobbled out to bat on day two and still managed to notch up a gritty half-century.

Although the severity of the injury ruled him out of wicketkeeping duties for the remainder of the match, the team management had made it clear early on that Pant would still bat if required. “Rishabh will bat tomorrow,” Kotak stated confidently at the end of day four.

India Trails by 137 Runs Despite Gritty Stand

India ended day four at 174 for 2, still trailing England’s first-innings total by 137 runs. The gap narrowed significantly thanks to a determined 174-run partnership between K.L. Rahul and Shubman Gill, who held their ground after two early wickets had put India on the back foot.

Kotak Applauds Rahul and Gill’s Composure

Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised the duo for their tactical patience and mental strength under pressure.

“A fifth-day pitch always has some wear and tear, but it’s still playing alright apart from the odd ball turning,” he said. “They showed immense belief and determination. At lunch, they had already decided to take their time, play out the initial 10–15 overs, and build from there. It was absolutely brilliant to watch.”

Gill’s Mindset Shift Paying Off

Kotak also highlighted a significant shift in Gill’s approach between the Australia and England series.

“There’s been a clear change in his mindset,” Kotak noted. “We’ve had conversations, but credit to him for reading the conditions, choosing his shots wisely, and avoiding unnecessary risks. That awareness is showing in his batting now.”

India’s revolving door at the No. 3 batting position continues, with no player yet cementing the spot. Despite this, Kotak downplayed any immediate concerns, indicating the team remains confident in its options.

England Sweats Over Ben Stokes’ Bowling Fitness

England, meanwhile, faces its own fitness scare — and it revolves around captain Ben Stokes. After a monumental first-innings effort that included a century and five wickets, Stokes has been unable to bowl since, hampered by cramps.

Assistant coach Marcus Trescothick addressed the media after day four and offered a cautiously optimistic update.

“We’re hoping he’ll be able to bowl tomorrow,” Trescothick said. “He’s had a heavy workload over the past few weeks. After that first-innings knock, the cramps kicked in. With some rest and physio overnight, hopefully he’ll be ready.”

England’s Bowling Plans Hang in the Balance

Trescothick acknowledged the challenge of losing a bowler of Stokes’ caliber. “Any time you lose a member of a five-man bowling unit, it leaves a gap,” he admitted. “Especially on a surface like this, which slows down as the ball ages. We may have to lean more on Joe Root to bowl some extra overs if needed. Everyone will have to dig deep.”

A Tense Final Day Awaits

As day five approaches, both teams face critical tests — of fitness, strategy, and resolve. India is already trailing in the series 2-1 after three Tests. The team is eager to head into the next match with a positive mindset, and for that, winning or at least drawing this Test is the only acceptable outcome. Moreover, with just one day remaining and England still having another chance to bat, a win for India seems nearly impossible.