NEW DELHI: Whenever Team India finds themselves in trouble, Rishabh Pant steps up to the rescue, undeterred by the team’s precarious position, he continues to play his fearless brand of cricket, bringing in his array of audacious shots.
Pant left the commentators in a frenzy with a spectacular reverse pull shot against Scott Boland on the second day of the pink ball Test in Adelaide.
The moment came on the third ball of the 17th over of India’s innings. Boland, who had been consistent with his disciplined line and length, bowled a slightly short delivery outside off.
Pant, however, had already premeditated a switch and went for the shot despite the challenging length and angle. The result was a stunning reverse pull that soared over the slip cordon.
In the 19th over, Pant again played a sensational pull shot that quickly went viral on social media. Anticipating a short delivery from Scott Boland, Pant patiently waited, then shuffled across the crease and bent towards his right to strike the ball fine.
In the process, he ended up falling to the ground, but Ravi Shastri, on commentary, couldn’t hide his excitement, praising Pant’s unwavering focus despite the mounting pressure.
Pant led India’s fightback with an entertaining 28 not out with Nitish Kumar Reddy on 15 at the other side as India trail by 29 runs at the close of play on Day 2.
Australia rode on Travis Head‘s blistering 140 to post 337 and reduced India to 128-5 to stay on course for a series-levelling victory in the day-night Test.
Head smashed a swashbuckling hundred to fetch Australia a first innings lead of 157 at his home ground the Adelaide Oval.