Rishabh PantA powerful Indian wicketkeeper-batter, he performed brilliantly on Day 2 of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). His innings not only electrified the crowd but also etched his name in the record books. With a quick-fire 50 off just 29 balls, Pant showed his aggressive batting style, setting off a thrilling contest.
Rishabh Pant hit Mitchell Starc outside the park
The moment that defined Pant's innings came in the 21st over when he faced off Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer took long, and Pant, in his trademark style, took a stunning shot. He picked up the ball casually, and sent it flying out of the legs for six minutes. This amazing shot not only brought up his fifty but also showed his ability to control the bowl with ease. It was a display of pure power and a moment that left both fans and players in awe.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Rishabh Pant's batting in Sydney Test gets praise from Sachin Tendulkar
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FIFTY IN JUST 29 BALLS – THE SECOND MATCH FOR AN INDIAN IN TESTS! 🙌@RishabhPant17 played a game-changing innings at the SCG! 🔥#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 Test 5, Day 2 | STAY NOW! | | #Tough Competition #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/yGaTGAlDxv
– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 4, 2025
Pant's record-breaking feat with the bat
Pant's fifty marked the second fastest century by an Indian in Test cricket, just one ball short of his record of 28 balls played. Sri Lanka in 2022. Additionally, this feat made him the first player in history to score a fifty off less than 30 balls in a test match. His innings also included sixes and sixes, with two of those sixes coming in quick succession from Starc, further emphasizing his aggressive approach at the crease.
His fiery batting not only boosted India's tally but also changed the match. Coming into bat at a critical time with India struggling at 59 for three, Pant's intent was evident on his first ball – he hit a six. Scott Bolandat the same time showing his anger. By the time he was dismissed for 61 runs in just 33 overs, he had led India to over 120, setting Australia a tough target.
The SCG test is scheduled for Day 2
As the match progressed, Australia's first innings ended as they scored 181 runs in 51 overs. Mohammed Siraj leading by taking three wickets for 51 runs. Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna it also played a major role in disrupting the Australian batting line-up.
In their second innings, India faced difficulties as they lost crucial wickets early on. However, Pant's fierce knock provided much-needed composure with the fight. Despite losing wickets regularly, plus Virat Kohli and Shubman GillPant's innings ensured that India remained competitive in the tournament. At the end of the second day, India found themselves at 141 for 6, looking to go ahead and bounce back against Australia as they look to retain the lead. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.