Rishabh Pant made a triumphant return to Test cricket with a commanding century against Bangladesh in Chennai. After managing a modest 39 in the first innings, Pant unleashed his full potential in the second, scoring a stunning 109 runs. His knock was pivotal in India’s dominant win, as he forged a crucial 167-run partnership with opener Shubman Gill, helping set a massive target that Bangladesh couldn’t chase down.
After being away from Test cricket for 21 months, Pant’s return was met with both excitement and nerves. Reflecting on his comeback in an interview with BCCI.TV, the 25-year-old admitted that while he felt anxious, there was an undeniable drive within him to succeed.
“I was very nervous, very jittery, but there was some fire inside that I wanted to make it happen. Eventually, I did, and I’m happy,” Rishabh Pant said in a video posted by BCCI on X (formerly Twitter).
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Though his 39-run effort in the first innings fell short of his expectations, Pant more than compensated in the second. He praised his partnership with Shubman Gill, highlighting how their off-field friendship translated into success on the pitch.
A fiery ton, match-winning partnership and that field setting moment 😃
Chennai Centurion Rishabh Pant reflects on a memorable Test comeback 👌👌 #TeamIndia | #INDvBAN | @RishabhPant17 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/uea5UlGbIR
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 23, 2024
“When you have a great relationship outside the field, it really helps to bat with that guy. We were just having fun, chatting about the game, and staying relaxed. We both knew what we wanted to achieve,” he added. Rishabh Pant also expressed his joy in contributing to the team’s success, stating, “Cricket should improve wherever you play. I was just trying to help the team with field placements, and I enjoyed every moment.”
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Pant’s explosive innings, combined with Gill’s composed approach, laid the foundation for India’s crushing 280-run victory, giving them a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
