The Indian wicket-keeper batter, Rishabh Pant has developed a lovely habit of playing brilliant knocks every once in a while. On Friday, he played a fiery knock of 71-ball 85 in the ongoing second ODI against South Africa. Pant, who scored just eight runs in the opening ODI, came into bat at a critical situation. India witnessed sudden dismissals of Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan in quick intervals after a 63-run opening stand.
However, skipper KL Rahul joined forces with Pant and the duo brought the Indian innings back on track. While Rahul took the backseat, Pant kept on smashing the opposition bowlers and gave a tough time to all Proteas bowers. From Lungi Ngidi to Keshav Maharaj, the southpaw batter spared none.
In the process, Rishabh Pant also notched up his highest ODI score and even looked all set to get his maiden hundred in the format. However, Tabraiz Shamsi eventually spoiled his party. Pant’s eyes lit up seeing a full-length delivery he decided to smash a boundary by coming down the track but ended up giving a catch to Aiden Markram near the long-on region.
WATCH – Keshav Maharaj Misses Run-out Chance As Rahul And Pant Came At The Same End
It was indeed an important wicket for South Africa and the same was evident after seeing the aggressive celebrations of Tabraiz Shamsi. The left-arm wrist spinner, who’s known for his animated behaviour, was all charged up and he roared in delight. However, he also acknowledged Pant’s efforts by giving a pat on his back.
Here is the video of the dismissal:
A big moment in the game as Tabraiz Shamsi gets Rishabh Pant.
📹: OfficialCSApic.twitter.com/2v4wPdyRIC
— The Field (@thefield_in) January 21, 2022
Meanwhile, it must be noted that South Africa had won the first ODI by 31 runs and they are having a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Hence, the Men in Blue are standing in a do-or-die match and they must leave no stones unturned to emerge victorious in this game.
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Fortunately for the visitors, the coin landed in India’s favor and skipper KL Rahul had no hesitation in batting first. As Rahul and Pant have set the base, the onus is now on the lower-order batter to take India to a daunting score. On the other hand, the hosts would like few more quick wickets.
Here is how the fans reacted to aggression of Tabraiz Shamsi:
Pant has come in and counter attacked brilliantly to help get #TeamIndia back on track. He gets to his 4️⃣th ODI half-century in just 4️⃣3️⃣ balls. 👏🏻👏🏻#PlayBold #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/Btu3NfSUN8
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) January 21, 2022
Virat Kohli enjoying the batting of Rishabh Pant. pic.twitter.com/eod3CxjyrK
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 21, 2022
Rishabh Pant in any situation, any format pic.twitter.com/df0sDbwKJA
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) January 21, 2022
Rishabh Pant goes for 85 in 71 balls. What a knock by Pant, shown great courage throughout the innings and due to his intent, missed out from a really well deserved hundred.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 21, 2022
