On the opening day of the fifth test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Indian wicketkeeper-batsman RISHABH PANTS He stole the show with a colossal six that hit the Australian debutant Beau Webster that caused an unusual delay in the game.
Rishabh Pant’s towering six leaves ground staff in a bind
Facing right-arm medium pace bowler Webster in the 46th over, Pant danced down the field and bowled a long delivery straight over the sight-screen. The power of the shot left the ball lodged in the sight glass, prompting the intervention of ground personnel. In a scene that made the crowd smile, staff had to find a ladder to retrieve the stuck ball. After some effort, one of them went up to dislodge him, marking a memorable moment in a high-stakes Test match.
Here is the video:
A six so big that the ground crew needed a ladder to retrieve it!#AUSWIND pic.twitter.com/oLUSw196l3
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025
Also WATCH: Steve Smith reacts after third umpire overturns his catch of Virat Kohli on Day 1 of SCG Test – AUS vs IND
Pant’s hard knock ends after brave fight
Pant’s innings of 40 off 98 balls was a mix of stamina and flair. Despite taking several blows to the body during his time at the crease, Pant played a vital role in stabilizing India’s innings. His stay came to an end in the 57th minute, when Scott Bolandrolling down the wicket, he tempted him with a short ball that came off the off stump. Pant’s attempt to take the delivery resulted in a bad hit, and the ball landed safely in the hands of Pat Cummins in the middle of the wicket.
Series at stake for India
This Test has immense importance for India, who are trailing 2-1 in the five-match series with one match tied. A win in Sydney would not only level the series but also allow India to retain the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australia, on the other hand, will aim to seal the series with a victory, which will put additional pressure on the visitors. The stakes are further intensified by the ICC World Test Championship positions. India, currently with 114 points and a PCT of 50%, needs a victory to increase its PCT to 55.26% and stay in the fight for the championship final.