Rishabh Pant was struck on the foot by a delivery from Chris Woakes on day one of the ongoing Manchester Test. As a result, he was forced to retire hurt on 37*. But despite the injury, he returned on day two and ended up scoring a crucial 54 runs for India. As he walked off after his dismissal, the entire stadium rose to applaud, acknowledging his courage and determination.
But this is not the first time in cricket history that such an incident has taken place. There have been several occasions when cricketers have displayed remarkable courage by taking the field despite being seriously injured.
Graeme Smith Against Australia
In the third Test of South Africa’s 2008–09 tour of Australia at the SCG, captain Graeme Smith was struck on the gloves by a bouncer from Mitchell Johnson in South Africa’s first innings. Hence, he was forced to retire hurt on 30* with a fractured fifth metacarpal. But in a truly inspirational moment in the second innings, when South Africa lost their ninth wicket, Smith walked out to bat with a broken hand to save the Test. He battled for 17 balls before losing his wicket as the Proteas lost the game.
Anil Kumble Against West Indies
During the second Test of the 2002 series between India and the West Indies in Antigua, Anil Kumble was hit on the jaw by a bouncer from Mervyn Dillon, resulting in a fractured jaw. Despite the pain, Kumble bravely bowled 14 consecutive overs in the second innings and even dismissed West Indies legend Brian Lara, cementing his reputation for incredible determination.
Nathan Lyon Against England
In the 2023 Ashes series at Lord’s, Nathan Lyon suffered a calf tear that ruled him out of the remainder of the series. He was even seen moving around on crutches. Yet, Lyon came out to bat in the second innings as the last man, adding a valuable 15-run partnership with Mitchell Starc, earning widespread admiration for his grit.
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