Rishabh Pant, the dynamic Indian wicketkeeper-batter, delivered a breathtaking performance 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 once again. With a quickfire fifty off just 29 balls, Pant showcased his aggressive batting style, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Rishabh Pant hits Mitchell Starc out of the park
The moment that defined Pant’s innings came during the 21st over when he faced Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer bowled a length delivery, and Pant, with his trademark flair, executed a stunning pick-up shot. He nonchalantly lifted the ball over deep midwicket, sending it soaring into the stands for a massive six. This remarkable shot not only brought up his fifty but also highlighted his ability to dominate bowlers with ease. It was a display of pure power and timing that left both fans and players in awe.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting in the Sydney Test earns praise from Sachin Tendulkar
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FIFTY IN JUST 29 BALLS – THE SECOND FASTEST BY AN INDIAN IN TESTS! 🙌@RishabhPant17 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
Record-breaking feats of Pant with the bat
Pant’s fifty marked the second-fastest half-century by an Indian in Test cricket, just one ball shy of his own record of 28 balls set against Sri Lanka in 2022. Moreover, this achievement made him the first player in history to score two fifties in under 30 balls in Test matches. His innings included six fours and four sixes, with two of those sixes coming consecutively off Starc, further emphasizing his aggressive approach at the crease.
His explosive batting not only boosted India’s total but also shifted the momentum of the match. Coming to bat at a precarious moment with India struggling at 59 for three, Pant’s intent was clear from his very first ball—he hit a six off Scott Boland, immediately signalling his aggressive mindset. By the time he was dismissed for 61 runs off just 33 deliveries, he had taken India’s lead past 120 runs, setting up a challenging target for Australia.
The SCG Test hangs in balance on Day 2
As the match progressed, Australia’s first innings concluded with them scoring 181 runs after being bowled out within 51 overs. The Indian bowlers put on an impressive display, with Mohammed Siraj leading the charge by claiming three wickets for 51 runs. Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna also contributed significantly to dismantle the Australian batting lineup.
In their second innings, India faced a challenging start as they lost key wickets early on. However, Pant’s blistering knock provided much-needed stability and aggression. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, including Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, Pant’s innings ensured that India remained competitive in the match. As Day 2 concluded, India found themselves at 141 for 6, looking to build on their lead and put pressure back on Australia as they aimed to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.