Cricket fans have been eagerly anticipating the return of Rishabh Pant to the pitch, not just for his explosive batting but also his exceptional wicketkeeping skills and engaging personality. Known for his humorous banter and lively interactions on the field, Pant has consistently entertained fans. Recently, during a Test match against Bangladesh in Chennai, he brought a unique twist by helping set the field for the opposition while he was batting. This unexpected move has sparked excitement and nostalgia among cricket enthusiasts, reminiscent of legendary wicketkeeper MS Dhoni’s similar antics in the past.
Pant’s Supportive Gesture on the Field
In the third session of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk, Rishabh Pant, alongside Shubman Gill, pushed Team India’s second innings forward impressively. Both players showcased their batting prowess, leaving the Bangladeshi bowlers and fielders searching for solutions. Amidst this, Pant stepped in to assist Bangladeshi captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto by guiding him on field placements, a gesture unheard of in professional cricket.
During the over from Bangladesh’s fast bowler Taskin Ahmed, while Pant was on strike, he saw Shanto trying to set the field. Out of nowhere, Pant began to suggest optimal positions for the fielders, saying, “Hey, one will come here… brother, one here… one fielder here, at midwicket.” His words, captured on the stump mic, not only showcased his tactical awareness but also his good-natured spirit of the game.
Always in the captain’s ear, even when it’s the opposition’s!
Never change, Rishabh Pant!
The Viral Moment
As if on cue, a fielder who was stationed at extra cover dashed to the midwicket position, following Pant’s instructions. This unexpected moment left commentators in stitches, unable to believe what they had just witnessed. The delightful clip of Pant’s field-setting advice quickly went viral across social media platforms, with many fans drawing parallels to MS Dhoni, who had a memorable similar exchange during the 2019 World Cup against Bangladesh.
Pant’s Impressive Form with the Bat
On a personal level, Pant was not just supportive of his counterparts but was also in stellar form with the bat. He eventually scored his 12th Test half-century in 88 balls after a careful start. It marked his first fifty in Test cricket in 637 days since December 23, 2022. Following this milestone, Pant displayed his aggressive style, unleashing a flurry of boundaries, including exquisite shots like the sweep-reverse swing, scoop, and pull. He had a moment of tension when a catch was dropped by Shanto just before lunch. At that point, he was on 72 runs. Pant and Gill formed a formidable partnership, both achieving half-centuries and pushing India’s lead beyond 400 runs, creating a solid foundation for the team’s innings.
Rishabh Pant’s return is not just vital for India’s Test ambitions but adds an entertaining and engaging layer to the matches he plays. His infectious enthusiasm, tactical awareness, and incredible talent make him a player to watch, promising many more memorable moments on the field.
