Once India declared their innings at 503/9, one expected Pant to don the gloves. However, Dhruv Jurel did the wicketkeeping duties in the final few minutes of play before stumps on Day 2 and did the same for the entire duration of play on Day 3.

After stumps on Day 3, India’s bowling coach was asked about an update on Pant, and it was then that the former South Africa speedster said that the wicketkeeper’s shoulder was badly bruised.

Why Rishabh Pant hasn’t taken the field on Day 3 of India vs Sri Lanka Colombo Test; Dhruv Jurel keeps wickets

“Rishabh obviously has been hit on the shoulder. I think it was discussed last night. He is quite badly bruised. He was just a little bit restricted in his movement this morning during warm-up. We know how important it is if you create opportunities, that we take those opportunities. I think they will keep monitoring him overnight,” Morkel told reporters on Tuesday.

“Hopefully, he will be behind the stumps for us tomorrow. I think it is important to have him there. His reading of the game is exceptional,” he added.

Speaking of Pant, the left-handed batter scored 63 runs off 89 balls in the first innings of the second Test and his innings was studded with six boundaries and two sixes.

The left-hander attempted to take on the delivery with a pull shot but failed to make clean contact, with the ball appearing to catch his glove. Pant immediately showed signs of discomfort and held the affected wrist. The impact appeared to have landed around the wrist bone.

The physio then assessed Pant before applying an ice pack to the area to help limit swelling. After discussions involving the umpire, physio and Pant, the wicketkeeper eventually decided to walk towards the dressing room for further treatment. However, he returned the next day, taking down the Sri Lankan spinners before losing his wicket to Keshara Nuwantha.

Speaking of the second Test, Sri Lanka ended Day 3 at 265/8 with Sonal Dinusha holding fort for the hosts. The Islanders are still trailing India by 238 runs. Earlier, India declared their innings at 503/9, and the visitors’ position was solidified by centuries from Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel.