New Delhi: Rishabh Pant displayed immense grit and determination in the Bangalore Test against New Zealand. Despite suffering a knee injury, Pant put up a brave fight, scoring 99 runs and forming a crucial partnership with Sarfaraz Khan to help India recover from a dismal first-innings performance. Although he missed his century by just one run, his knock brought India back into the contest and earned praise from fans and teammates.
Pant’s Injury Drama Adds Tension to the Match
Pant, who had injured his knee while wicketkeeping, was a doubtful starter for the second innings. However, he ignored the discomfort and walked out to bat when India needed him the most. The crowd and Indian dressing room were relieved to see him in action, but Pant looked uneasy at the start. His discomfort gave New Zealand an early chance when wicketkeeper Tom Blundell missed a simple run-out opportunity, letting Pant off the hook.
A Fiery Partnership with Sarfaraz Khan
Pant and Sarfaraz Khan stitched together a crucial 177-run stand for the fourth wicket in just 211 balls, turning the tide in India’s favor. While Pant took on the bowlers with his aggressive batting, Sarfaraz played cautiously to ensure stability at the other end. Their partnership helped India recover from being bundled out for just 46 runs in the first innings, giving the team a fighting chance in the Test.
Pant’s Famous World Cup Trick Came to Light
Pant’s fearless attitude reminded many of his clever tactics during the T20 World Cup final against South Africa. As revealed by Rohit Sharma on a comedy show, Pant had faked an injury behind the stumps during the final to disrupt the concentration of in-form batsman Heinrich Klaasen. The delay worked, and India took Klaasen’s wicket, helping them win the World Cup. However, Pant’s injury tactic couldn’t come to his rescue this time, as he was bowled by William O’Rooke just one run short of his seventh Test century.
Pant Overcomes Tough Conditions but Falls Short of a Century
Pant’s innings wasn’t easy, as New Zealand’s fast bowlers tested him with swing. Despite the challenges, Pant smashed two sixes off Ajaz Patel in a single over, followed by another flurry of boundaries. He reached his half-century off just 55 balls with a four off Glenn Phillips. Rain interrupted the game, forcing a two-hour break that included lunch, but Pant continued to dominate when play resumed.
New Zealand Strikes Back with the New Ball
After 80 overs, New Zealand took the new ball, hoping to break the Pant-Sarfaraz partnership. Their fast bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, troubling both batsmen with late swing. Pant tried to accelerate but was eventually bowled for 99, narrowly missing out on what could have been a memorable century. His dismissal left fans heartbroken, but his efforts ensured India’s second innings was competitive.
A Test Knock to Remember
Though Pant missed his century, his 99-run knock will be remembered as one of his grittiest innings in Test cricket. His determination to fight through injury and the way he led India’s recovery alongside Sarfaraz Khan demonstrated his value to the team. With his aggressive style and never-give-up attitude, Pant continues to be a vital player for India in all formats of the game.
