The 19-year-old Hameed, who got hit on his left hand once in the second Test in Vizag and once again in the third Test in Mohali, will be returning home to get a plate fitted into his broken hand, captain Alastair Cook confirmed.

“Unfortunately, he’s got to go home and have a plate put in his hand, it’s pretty bad,” Cook said after the match. He added:  “It’s a real testament to his courage, and I’ve no doubt we’ll see him again in an England shirt.”

One of the biggest positives to emerge in this series so far for England, Hameed played a fighting innings in Mohali with the visitors desperately trying to save the match. His unbeaten 59 off 156 balls was a study in strong defence initially while he shifted gears towards the end, accelerating to his 50 after making 11 runs in his first 120 balls.

Playing with a wrapped-up left arm & with extra padding in the gloves, Hameed refused to give up defying the Indian bowlers with solid defence as England kept losing wickets at the other end.

Hameed was left stranded when James Anderson was run out for five. The 19-year-old remained unbeaten after nearly three hours at the crease to enhance his burgeoning reputation.

Indian captain Virat Kohli rushed to the youngster after England’s innings to pat him on his back for what was a valiant knock. Ajinkya Rahane, Murali Vijay joined in too, in what was a wonderful display of sportsmanship.

Hameed’s display of sheer grit was not enough for England as India won the third test inside four days. 

Here’s hoping he makes a complete recovery soon.

(With Reuters inputs)