Team India might be forced to make a crucial change ahead of the fifth and final Test against England, as star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has reportedly been ruled out due to injury. Pant sustained a fracture in his right leg on the first day of the ongoing fourth Test in Manchester and has been advised a minimum of six weeks’ rest following a medical scan. With Pant out of the reckoning, attention has now shifted to Ishan Kishan as a likely replacement.

According to The Indian Express, quoting BCCI sources, the selectors are seriously considering Ishan Kishan for the Oval Test. If finalized, Kishan could make his return to India’s Test squad after nearly two years — he last played a red-ball international against the West Indies in July 2023, and his last appearance for India in any format came in a T20I in November 2023.

Why Ishan Kishan Makes a Strong Case for Selection

There are five key reasons why Ishan Kishan is emerging as the front-runner to replace Rishabh Pant:

1. Like-for-Like Wicketkeeper-Batsman
   Ishan Kishan offers a similar skillset to Pant — both are left-handed wicketkeeper-batsmen capable of changing the course of a game with their counterattacking style. His presence will allow the team to maintain its existing balance without drastically altering the playing XI.

2. Aggressive Batting Approach
   Kishan, like Pant, is known for his fearless and aggressive approach, especially in pressure situations. He has the ability to take on fast bowlers and spinners alike, making him a dynamic middle-order option — crucial in England’s conditions.

3. Comfortable Batting Position
   One of the underrated advantages Kishan brings is his flexibility in the batting order. Just as Pant was batting lower down the lineup, Kishan too is comfortable slotting in at No. 6 or 7, where quick scoring and situational awareness are essential.

4. Proven Form in County Cricket
   Ishan has recently impressed with the bat while playing for Northamptonshire in county cricket. He notched up notable scores of 87 and 77, which highlight his adaptability to English conditions — something that will work strongly in his favor with the selectors.

5. Acclimatization to English Conditions
   Having already spent time in England playing both county cricket and for India A, Kishan is well-acclimatized to the environment and pitch behavior there. This reduces the adaptation time needed and gives India a ready-made replacement for Pant.