A high-stakes Test match between India and England is currently being played at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

On Day 1, Team India faced a major concern when wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant injured his finger and had to walk off the field.

Despite receiving medical treatment, he appeared to be in considerable pain and did not return. Dhruv Jurel, India’s backup wicketkeeper, then took over duties behind the stumps.

This situation has sparked a lot of curiosity among fans: If Pant remains unfit, is Dhruv Jurel allowed to bat in his place?

ICC Rules on Substitutes Explained

According to the rules set by the International Cricket Council (ICC), a substitute is not permitted to bat or bowl unless they are brought in as a concussion substitute—a provision made specifically for head injuries.

Since Pant’s injury is related to his finger and not a head injury, Jurel is not eligible to bat in his place. He can continue to keep wickets and field, but the batting slot remains unavailable to a non-concussion substitute.

As per the BCCI’s official statement, Pant is currently under medical supervision, and the support staff is monitoring his recovery closely. The team is hopeful that the injury isn’t serious and that he’ll be able to return to bat later in the match.

Rishabh Pant has been in outstanding form throughout the series, amassing 385 runs in four innings across two Tests.

He holds an impressive batting average of 85.5, including one century and two half-centuries, making him a crucial asset for India in the ongoing series.

Root one run away from century

With the scoreboard reading 251/4 at stumps on Day 1, hosts England will aim to shift gears on Day 2 against an Indian team eager to strike early. Joe Root, unbeaten on 99, is just one run away from reaching a well-deserved century.