RISHABH PANTSthe dynamic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, put in an impressive performance on day 2 of the fifth test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). His entries not only electrified the crowd but also etched his name in the record books once again. With a quick fifty off just 29 balls, Pant showcased his aggressive batting style, setting the stage for an exciting contest.
Rishabh Pant knocks Mitchell Starc out of the park
The defining moment of Pant’s innings came during the 21st over when he faced Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer bowled a long delivery and Pant, in his trademark style, played a stunning shot. Nonchalantly, he lifted the ball over mid-wicket, sending it into the stands for a huge six. This remarkable shot not only raised his fifty but also highlighted his ability to dominate players with ease. It was a display of pure power and timing that left fans and players alike in awe.
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FIFTY IN JUST 29 BALLS: SECOND FASTEST BY AN INDIAN IN TEST! 🙌@RishabhPant17 He played a game-changing innings at the SCG! 🔥#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 5th Test, Day 2 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/yGaTGAlDxv
– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 4, 2025
Pant’s record-breaking feats with the bat
Pant’s fifty marked the second-fastest half-century by an Indian in Test cricket, just one ball short of his own record of 28 balls against Sri Lanka in 2022. Furthermore, this achievement made him the first player in history to score two fifties in less than 30 balls in Test matches. His innings included six fours and four sixes, two of those sixes coming consecutively from Starc, further emphasizing his aggressive approach at the crease.
His explosive batting not only boosted India’s total but also changed the momentum of the match. Batting at a precarious time with India struggling at 59 for three, Pant’s intention was clear from his first ball: he hit a six Scott Bolandimmediately indicating his aggressive mentality. When he was dismissed for 61 runs off just 33 deliveries, he had taken India’s lead beyond 120 runs, setting a challenging target for Australia.
SCG Test is on the line on Day 2
As the match progressed, Australia’s first innings concluded with 181 runs after being bowled out in 51 overs. The Indian bowlers put up an impressive display, with Mohammed Siraj leading the charge by claiming three wickets for 51 runs. jasprit bumrah and Prasidh Krishna He also contributed significantly to dismantling the Australian batting line-up.
In their second innings, India faced a challenging start as they lost key wickets early on. However, Pant’s strong knock provided much-needed stability and aggression. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, including Virat Kohli and Shubman GillPant’s innings ensured that India remained competitive in the match. At the conclusion of Day 2, India were at 141 for 6, looking to extend their lead and put pressure back on Australia in their aim to retain the lead. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.