In a surprising move, Rishabh Pant has walked out to bat on Day 4 of the ongoing India vs New Zealand Test at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium. Pant, who missed wicketkeeping duties on Day 2 and Day 3 due to a knee injury, has now joined Sarfaraz Khan at the crease. The two dynamic batsmen are set to continue India’s chase, with the team still trailing by 124 runs.
Sarfaraz, who played an audacious innings yesterday, now has Pant as his partner. With the lights coming on, the crowd eagerly awaits what promises to be an exciting session. Pant’s presence on the field, despite his injury, is sure to lift the spirits of the Indian team as they aim to reduce the deficit and build momentum.
As per MCC rules, Pant would not be penalized for his absence due to an external injury. The laws allow him to resume batting, as the injury occurred during the match. With India trailing by 125 runs and positioned at 231-3, Pant’s return could be pivotal. Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli had built a strong partnership of 136 runs before Glenn Phillips dismissed Kohli, leaving India on the back foot again.
Pant sustained an injury on Day 2 while attempting a stumping off Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling. He left the field for treatment, leaving Dhruv Jurel to take over wicketkeeping duties.
