Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> recently shared his thoughts on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a>&rsquo;s importance to the Indian cricket team and the upcoming T20I and ODI series against England. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Raina praised Pant&rsquo;s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format.
&ldquo;Rishabh has improved a lot as a wicket-keeper. In this tournament, he needs to focus on batting responsibly. If Yashasvi isn&rsquo;t in the top order, Pant can be a crucial player, batting at number four or even before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a>. If he plays 40-50 balls, he can change the game. He has the talent and ability to be the X-factor, but he must avoid mistakes that could cost the team,&rdquo; Raina stated.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-vows-to-bring-champions-trophy-home-recalls-mumbais-victory-parade-during-wankhedes-50th-anniversary-8636854">Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home</a>
Speaking about the importance of the series against England and his predictions for the Champions Trophy semi-finalists, Raina said the matches would help key players like Mohammed Shami and Washington Sundar who haven&rsquo;t played ODIs recently. He predicted India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and South Africa as semi-finalists, praising Afghanistan&rsquo;s mystery spinners and team unity. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t underestimate Afghanistan. They&rsquo;ve played a lot of short-format cricket and are a strong unit,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>England series crucial for building momentum: Raina</h2>
Addressing India&rsquo;s recent run in ODIs, Raina said, &ldquo;There are concerns after losses to New Zealand and Sri Lanka, and our top three batters need to regain form. This series is crucial to building momentum. Pakistan doesn&rsquo;t have an edge over us as we have six match-winners and quality bowlers. But batting with patience, building partnerships, and adapting to different wickets will be key.&rdquo;
Raina also highlighted the absence of a leg-spinner, saying a player like Bishnoi could have been valuable. He expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s leadership and backed veterans like Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja to deliver in a tight situation.
Recalling the 2013 Champions Trophy win, Raina said, "Rohit, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat</a>, and Jadeja were brilliant then. Rohit has matured as a captain and batsman since, and I believe he can replicate his World Cup performances. If Rohit stays for 20-25 overs, he could produce match-winning innings in Dubai&rsquo;s challenging conditions."

Suresh Raina praised Pant’s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format. Sports. Cricket.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina recently shared his thoughts on Rishabh Pant’s importance to the Indian cricket team and the upcoming T20I and ODI series against England. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Raina praised Pant’s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format. “Rishabh has improved a lot as a wicket-keeper. In this tournament, he needs to focus on batting responsibly. If Yashasvi isn’t in the top order, Pant can be a crucial player, batting at number four or even before Hardik Pandya. If he plays 40-50 balls, he can change the game. He has the talent and ability to be the X-factor, but he must avoid mistakes that could cost the team,” Raina stated. Also Read: Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home Speaking about the importance of the series against England and his predictions for the Champions Trophy semi-finalists, Raina said the matches would help key players like Mohammed Shami and Washington Sundar who haven’t played ODIs recently. He predicted India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and South Africa as semi-finalists, praising Afghanistan’s mystery spinners and team unity. “Don’t underestimate Afghanistan. They’ve played a lot of short-format cricket and are a strong unit,” he added. England series crucial for building momentum: Raina Addressing India’s recent run in ODIs, Raina said, “There are concerns after losses to New Zealand and Sri Lanka, and our top three batters need to regain form. This series is crucial to building momentum. Pakistan doesn’t have an edge over us as we have six match-winners and quality bowlers. But batting with patience, building partnerships, and adapting to different wickets will be key.” Raina also highlighted the absence of a leg-spinner, saying a player like Bishnoi could have been valuable. He expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma’s leadership and backed veterans like Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja to deliver in a tight situation. Recalling the 2013 Champions Trophy win, Raina said, "Rohit, Virat, and Jadeja were brilliant then. Rohit has matured as a captain and batsman since, and I believe he can replicate his World Cup performances. If Rohit stays for 20-25 overs, he could produce match-winning innings in Dubai’s challenging conditions."

This ex-World Cup winner wants Pant to play with more responsibility

Rishabh Pant could be Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) new captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL), per the latest reports. LSG splurged a whopping $3.21 million (INR 27 crore) on Pant at the December auction in Jeddah, making him the most expensive IPL player ever.
Upon being declared the new captain next season onwards, Pant will succeed former gloveman KL Rahul at LSG, under whom the franchise made the playoffs in their first two seasons (since 2022), though they never reached the final. LSG&rsquo;s 2024 IPL season ended with them finishing seventh on the points table.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sirajs-impact-dips-when-not-bowling-with-the-new-ball-rohit-8633213" rel="dofollow">Siraj&rsquo;s impact dips when not bowling with the new ball: Rohit</a>
However, after KL and LSG decided to part ways after three seasons, they brought in a replacement &ndash; a keeper-batter and someone who could lead the side, with Pant ticking all the boxes. Ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, LSG retained five players, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan, with none offering a captaincy choice for the owners and the management.
Pant had led Delhi Capitals (DC) before, having captained them in his return season following a horrific road mishap a few years ago. Although DC wanted to retain Pant ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, not offering him a chance to extend his role as the franchise captain perhaps led to the fallout, which saw him enter the IPL auction and make history.
Having made his IPL debut nine years ago in 2016, Pant played for just one franchise, leading them in three seasons (2021-2024), but failed to guide them to reach a finale, let alone helping them win their first IPL title.&nbsp;
<h2>Pant&rsquo;s new team</h2>
Pant will join a star-studded LSG team for the next season commencing March 21. The attacking left-handed batter will have the services of overseas batters like David Miller, Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram, alongside rejoining his India teammates Akash Deep Singh and Avesh Khan.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sanjay-manjrekar-wants-virat-kohli-to-follow-pujaras-path-in-bid-to-regain-form-ahead-of-england-tests-8633202" rel="dofollow">Manjrekar wants Kohli to play County cricket to regain form ahead of England Tests</a>
Besides, Pant will also work with former Australia coach Justin Langer, with whom he interacted on and off on the sidelines of the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, and new team mentor Zaheer Khan.
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2025 IPL: Rishabh Pant 🤝 Justin Langer Rishabh talks about what he's looking forward to playing under Langer as coach... <a href="https://t.co/bx7I58v8k1">pic.twitter.com/bx7I58v8k1</a>
&mdash; 7Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1875315579961196822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Pant has returned to India&rsquo;s ODI squad for the England series (three matches on February 6, 9 and 12) and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (scheduled in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19).
He and KL Rahul will share wicket-keeping duties for the two marquee series.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: After KL and LSG decided to part ways, they brought in a replacement – a keeper-batter and someone who could lead the side, with Pant ticking all the boxes.

Rishabh Pant could be Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) new captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL), per the latest reports. LSG splurged a whopping $3.21 million (INR 27 crore) on Pant at the December auction in Jeddah, making him the most expensive IPL player ever. Upon being declared the new captain next season onwards, Pant will succeed former gloveman KL Rahul at LSG, under whom the franchise made the playoffs in their first two seasons (since 2022), though they never reached the final. LSG’s 2024 IPL season ended with them finishing seventh on the points table. Also read | Siraj’s impact dips when not bowling with the new ball: Rohit However, after KL and LSG decided to part ways after three seasons, they brought in a replacement – a keeper-batter and someone who could lead the side, with Pant ticking all the boxes. Ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, LSG retained five players, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan, with none offering a captaincy choice for the owners and the management. Pant had led Delhi Capitals (DC) before, having captained them in his return season following a horrific road mishap a few years ago. Although DC wanted to retain Pant ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, not offering him a chance to extend his role as the franchise captain perhaps led to the fallout, which saw him enter the IPL auction and make history. Having made his IPL debut nine years ago in 2016, Pant played for just one franchise, leading them in three seasons (2021-2024), but failed to guide them to reach a finale, let alone helping them win their first IPL title. Pant’s new team Pant will join a star-studded LSG team for the next season commencing March 21. The attacking left-handed batter will have the services of overseas batters like David Miller, Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram, alongside rejoining his India teammates Akash Deep Singh and Avesh Khan. Also read | Manjrekar wants Kohli to play County cricket to regain form ahead of England Tests Besides, Pant will also work with former Australia coach Justin Langer, with whom he interacted on and off on the sidelines of the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, and new team mentor Zaheer Khan. 2025 IPL: Rishabh Pant 🤝 Justin Langer Rishabh talks about what he's looking forward to playing under Langer as coach... pic.twitter.com/bx7I58v8k1 — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 3, 2025 Meanwhile, Pant has returned to India’s ODI squad for the England series (three matches on February 6, 9 and 12) and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (scheduled in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19). He and KL Rahul will share wicket-keeping duties for the two marquee series. (With inputs from agencies)

Rishabh Pant to captain Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 – Report

Rishabh Pant is fearless and plays the most unusual cricketing shots but still has the best defence in the world, his former India teammate Ravichandran Ashwin reckons. The gloveman had a below-par Test series against Australia Down Under, scoring 255 runs in nine innings at 28.33, but showed glimpses of his past performances, with a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG.
Reflecting on Pant&rsquo;s outing on his third Australian tour, Ashwin, who announced his international retirement midway through the series, said the left-handed batter needs to make little amends to his game, and upon mastering that art, he can score hundreds for fun in each outing.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/indian-quick-varun-aaron-announces-retirement-from-all-representative-cricket-8607588" rel="dofollow">Indian quick Varun Aaron hangs boots from all representative cricket</a>
Ashwin said the team needs to tell him what he must do in the middle, adding that although he failed to score runs and guide his team home against Australia this time, Pant is yet to realise his full potential.
&ldquo;We have to tell him properly what he has to do if he has to bat solid or bat with intent. He hasn't scored a lot of runs, but he didn't play like someone without runs. He has a lot of time on his hands. Rishabh Pant is yet to realise his fullest potential,&rdquo; Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He has all the shots -- reverse sweep, slog sweep, everything -- but the problem is that all these shots are high-risk shots. With his defence, he will surely score runs every game if he faces 200 balls.&nbsp;
"The point is finding that middle game. If he combines all of it, he will score 100 runs every game. He has to find that middle game," Ashwin continued.
<h2>Ashwin recalls Pant&rsquo;s SCG heroics</h2>
Among Pant&rsquo;s few hundreds Down Under, one came at the SCG in 2019, when he slammed a stunning 159, guiding India home. That, however, was a thing of the past, but what remained with him this time was his grit to take on the mighty Aussies, which impressed Ashwin.&nbsp;
Although the recently-retired cricketer lauded his second-inning knock (61 off 33 balls), Ashwin said people shouldn&rsquo;t forget his first-inning heroics, where he suffered several blows to his body.
&ldquo;I have always grown up hearing that you have fight it out. In Sydney, he played two different knocks in one single game. He got hit everywhere and scored a 40, it will be the least spoken innings of Rishabh Pant. It is very unfair.
"In the second innings, he scored a swashbuckling fifty, earning him a lot of praise. Everyone forgot that first inning and praised him for the second knock," Ashwin noted.&nbsp;
<h3>Pant has to fight out in Tests</h3>
Having watched Pant grow as a cricketer since his Test debut, Ashwin said the India gloveman has the best defence in world cricket and shall be acknowledged.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We must realise that Rishabh Pant rarely gets out playing a defence. He's got one of the best defences in world cricket. Defence has become a challenging aspect, he has the best defence with a soft hand.&nbsp;
"I have bowled to him a lot in the nets, he's not gotten out, he doesn't get an edge, he doesn't get LBW, he has the best defence. I have tried telling it to him. One opinion about Rishabh was that he plays a lot of shots, he has to fight it out in Test cricket," Ashwin added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Reflecting on Pant’s outing in BGT 2024-25, Ashwin said he needs to make little amends to his game, and upon mastering that art, Pant can score hundreds for fun.

Rishabh Pant is fearless and plays the most unusual cricketing shots but still has the best defence in the world, his former India teammate Ravichandran Ashwin reckons. The gloveman had a below-par Test series against Australia Down Under, scoring 255 runs in nine innings at 28.33, but showed glimpses of his past performances, with a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG. Reflecting on Pant’s outing on his third Australian tour, Ashwin, who announced his international retirement midway through the series, said the left-handed batter needs to make little amends to his game, and upon mastering that art, he can score hundreds for fun in each outing. Also read | Indian quick Varun Aaron hangs boots from all representative cricket Ashwin said the team needs to tell him what he must do in the middle, adding that although he failed to score runs and guide his team home against Australia this time, Pant is yet to realise his full potential. “We have to tell him properly what he has to do if he has to bat solid or bat with intent. He hasn't scored a lot of runs, but he didn't play like someone without runs. He has a lot of time on his hands. Rishabh Pant is yet to realise his fullest potential,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. “He has all the shots -- reverse sweep, slog sweep, everything -- but the problem is that all these shots are high-risk shots. With his defence, he will surely score runs every game if he faces 200 balls. "The point is finding that middle game. If he combines all of it, he will score 100 runs every game. He has to find that middle game," Ashwin continued. Ashwin recalls Pant’s SCG heroics Among Pant’s few hundreds Down Under, one came at the SCG in 2019, when he slammed a stunning 159, guiding India home. That, however, was a thing of the past, but what remained with him this time was his grit to take on the mighty Aussies, which impressed Ashwin. Although the recently-retired cricketer lauded his second-inning knock (61 off 33 balls), Ashwin said people shouldn’t forget his first-inning heroics, where he suffered several blows to his body. “I have always grown up hearing that you have fight it out. In Sydney, he played two different knocks in one single game. He got hit everywhere and scored a 40, it will be the least spoken innings of Rishabh Pant. It is very unfair. "In the second innings, he scored a swashbuckling fifty, earning him a lot of praise. Everyone forgot that first inning and praised him for the second knock," Ashwin noted. Pant has to fight out in Tests Having watched Pant grow as a cricketer since his Test debut, Ashwin said the India gloveman has the best defence in world cricket and shall be acknowledged. “We must realise that Rishabh Pant rarely gets out playing a defence. He's got one of the best defences in world cricket. Defence has become a challenging aspect, he has the best defence with a soft hand. "I have bowled to him a lot in the nets, he's not gotten out, he doesn't get an edge, he doesn't get LBW, he has the best defence. I have tried telling it to him. One opinion about Rishabh was that he plays a lot of shots, he has to fight it out in Test cricket," Ashwin added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘He doesn’t get beaten, he has the best defence,’ Ashwin lauds Pant

Rishabh Pant made headlines for his second-fastest Test fifty against Australia on day two of the fifth BGT Test against Australia in Sydney. Pant hit a 29-ball half-century during India&rsquo;s second innings at the SCG - his quickest Down Under, helping the visitors recover from early blows inflicted by Aussie quick Scott Boland. India ended day two on 141 for six, with a lead of 145.
A total of 15 wickets fell on day two of the decisive SCG Test, three of each came to the Indian duo of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, and Australia&rsquo;s Scott Boland bagged four across several spells in India&rsquo;s second innings.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rishabh-pant-hits-second-fastest-test-fifty-for-india-at-scg-watch-8590298" rel="dofollow">BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH</a>
Day two began with all eyeballs on Jasprit Bumrah and Aussie rookie opener Sam Konstas, with the Indian quick dominating him throughout. Bumrah removed Marnus Labuschagne on four before Siraj accounted for Konstas and Travis Head in the same over, putting Australia&rsquo;s back against the wall.&nbsp;
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Jasprit Bumrah strikes early on Day Two, dismissing the in-form Marnus Labuschagne. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDHO6Si0W7">pic.twitter.com/jDHO6Si0W7</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875329166406467618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Steve Smith and debutant Beau Webster tried saving the sinking ship but Australia lost Smith shortly before lunch on day two. Though Webster completed his maiden Test fifty in the second session, the wickets kept tumbling at the other end, with Krishna impressing everyone with his tight lines.&nbsp;
However, the stand-in captain, Bumrah, left the SCG amid an injury scare by then, mounting worry on the Indian fans and the team management. With no Rohit and Bumrah, Virat Kohli took over the captain&rsquo;s hat, helping seamers wrap up Australia&rsquo;s innings on 181, four shy of India&rsquo;s first-inning total.
<h2>Pant entertains SCG&nbsp;</h2>
Before Pant&rsquo;s entertaining knock cheered everyone up, Yashasvi Jaiswal did the same by smashing four fours to Mitchell Starc in the first over of India&rsquo;s second innings. He looked dangerous until captain Pat Cummins introduced Boland to the attack, only for the domestic giant to remove both openers with peaches.&nbsp;
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Scott Boland with a peach to get KL Rahul! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/Cu1qhVVvWQ">pic.twitter.com/Cu1qhVVvWQ</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875407050198446253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
He got rid of Virat, caught in the slip a few overs later, ending King Kohli&rsquo;s mediocre run Down Under this time.
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The Scott Boland show is delivering at the SCG! He's got Virat Kohli now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/12xG5IWL2j">pic.twitter.com/12xG5IWL2j</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875415306694164522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h3>Entered Rishabh Pant!</h3>
The left-handed batter upped the ante, hitting his second-quickest Test fifty, his fastest in this part of the world, entertaining the Sydney crowd.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5hwx2s6-ywiuan5g-iiua63lc">
FIFTY IN JUST 29 BALLS - THE SECOND FASTEST BY AN INDIAN IN TESTS! 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> played a game-changing innings at the SCG! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDOnStar</a> 👉 5th Test, Day 2 | LIVE NOW! | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/yGaTGAlDxv">pic.twitter.com/yGaTGAlDxv</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1875428068011184142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
Cummins ended his brief stay at the crease before Boland returned to pick Nitish Kumar Reddy (on six) for his third successive single-digit score since his maiden Test ton at MCG.&nbsp;
Australia dropped Ravindra Jadeja close to stumps on day one but still managed to have an edge over the Indians.&nbsp;

Cricket, Sports: 15 wickets fell on day two of the SCG Test, with India's Prasidh Krishna and Australia's Scott Boland picking three and four wickets, respectively.

Rishabh Pant made headlines for his second-fastest Test fifty against Australia on day two of the fifth BGT Test against Australia in Sydney. Pant hit a 29-ball half-century during India’s second innings at the SCG - his quickest Down Under, helping the visitors recover from early blows inflicted by Aussie quick Scott Boland. India ended day two on 141 for six, with a lead of 145. A total of 15 wickets fell on day two of the decisive SCG Test, three of each came to the Indian duo of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, and Australia’s Scott Boland bagged four across several spells in India’s second innings. Also read | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH Day two began with all eyeballs on Jasprit Bumrah and Aussie rookie opener Sam Konstas, with the Indian quick dominating him throughout. Bumrah removed Marnus Labuschagne on four before Siraj accounted for Konstas and Travis Head in the same over, putting Australia’s back against the wall. Jasprit Bumrah strikes early on Day Two, dismissing the in-form Marnus Labuschagne. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/jDHO6Si0W7 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025 Steve Smith and debutant Beau Webster tried saving the sinking ship but Australia lost Smith shortly before lunch on day two. Though Webster completed his maiden Test fifty in the second session, the wickets kept tumbling at the other end, with Krishna impressing everyone with his tight lines. However, the stand-in captain, Bumrah, left the SCG amid an injury scare by then, mounting worry on the Indian fans and the team management. With no Rohit and Bumrah, Virat Kohli took over the captain’s hat, helping seamers wrap up Australia’s innings on 181, four shy of India’s first-inning total. Pant entertains SCG Before Pant’s entertaining knock cheered everyone up, Yashasvi Jaiswal did the same by smashing four fours to Mitchell Starc in the first over of India’s second innings. He looked dangerous until captain Pat Cummins introduced Boland to the attack, only for the domestic giant to remove both openers with peaches. Scott Boland with a peach to get KL Rahul! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/Cu1qhVVvWQ — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2025 He got rid of Virat, caught in the slip a few overs later, ending King Kohli’s mediocre run Down Under this time. The Scott Boland show is delivering at the SCG! He's got Virat Kohli now. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/12xG5IWL2j — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2025 Entered Rishabh Pant! The left-handed batter upped the ante, hitting his second-quickest Test fifty, his fastest in this part of the world, entertaining the Sydney crowd. 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 Cummins ended his brief stay at the crease before Boland returned to pick Nitish Kumar Reddy (on six) for his third successive single-digit score since his maiden Test ton at MCG. Australia dropped Ravindra Jadeja close to stumps on day one but still managed to have an edge over the Indians.

BGT: SCG Test hangs in balance after Pant’s whirlwind knock on day 2

Rishabh Pant scored the second-fastest fifty for an Indian in Tests during their second innings against Australia on day two of the SCG Test. Walking into bat after Virat Kohli&rsquo;s dismissal on six, Pant whacked Scott Boland for a first-ball six at deep mid-on, cheering up the record crowd present. With six fours and four sixes, two of which came off successive deliveries against Mitchell Starc, Pant completed his quickest Test fifty Down Under in 29 balls.<o:p></o:p>
Pant came in with a purpose and achieved it with his whirlwind knock, upsetting the Aussies and bringing joy to the countless Indian fans watching worldwide. Known for his non-textbook yet aggressive style of cricket, Pant&rsquo;s punt worked in the second innings, as he cleared boundaries for fun.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-this-is-not-a-retirement-decision-rohit-sharma-breaks-silence-on-scg-test-omission-8590113" rel="dofollow">BGT: &lsquo;This is not a retirement decision,&rsquo; Rohit Sharma breaks silence on SCG Test omission</a>
Taking on each bowler, Pant first attacked Boland, who picked the first three wickets, including removing the openers and star batter Kohli, before hammering debutant Beau Webster for successive fours. He upped the run rate with his counterattack, which he&rsquo;s most famous for, before entering history books with his second-fastest Test fifty.<o:p></o:p>
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In Rishabh Pant's 33-ball, 61-run innings: 🔥 6 fours 🔥 4 sixes And here's every one of those boundaries <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hc3Sx66DSr">pic.twitter.com/Hc3Sx66DSr</a>
&mdash; 7Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1875429778020516221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
The moment came during Starc&rsquo;s return spell when Pant smashed him for two massive sixes on the on-side, completing his fifty and leaving behind a massive impact. His knock switched the momentum towards India as their lead crossed 130 at the time of his wicket.<o:p></o:p>
Pant&rsquo;s magic couldn&rsquo;t stay for long as Aussie captain Pat Cummins dismissed him caught behind in his first over after lunch on 61. By then, India had lost five wickets, including that of Shubman Gill, Rohit&rsquo;s replacement, who played another silly shot to gift his wicket.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Boland on top</h2>
Boland has been India&rsquo;s nemesis since his inclusion in the side for the second Test as Josh Hazlewood&rsquo;s replacement. Brought back for the Boxing Day Test, Boland played a crucial role in helping Australia beat India at the MCG for the first time since 2011, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
He, however, continued his golden form in the series decider in Sydney, picking four wickets in the first and as many thus far in the second, including getting rid of Nitish Kumar Reddy on four - his third single-digit score since his maiden Test ton at the &lsquo;G&rsquo;.
Just at the stroke of stumps on day two, Australia dropped Ravindra Jadeja in the slips, with India&rsquo;s scorecard 141/6, leading by 145 runs.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: With six fours and four sixes, two of which came off successive deliveries against Mitchell Starc, Pant completed his quickest Test fifty Down Under in 29 balls.

Rishabh Pant scored the second-fastest fifty for an Indian in Tests during their second innings against Australia on day two of the SCG Test. Walking into bat after Virat Kohli’s dismissal on six, Pant whacked Scott Boland for a first-ball six at deep mid-on, cheering up the record crowd present. With six fours and four sixes, two of which came off successive deliveries against Mitchell Starc, Pant completed his quickest Test fifty Down Under in 29 balls. Pant came in with a purpose and achieved it with his whirlwind knock, upsetting the Aussies and bringing joy to the countless Indian fans watching worldwide. Known for his non-textbook yet aggressive style of cricket, Pant’s punt worked in the second innings, as he cleared boundaries for fun. Also read | BGT: ‘This is not a retirement decision,’ Rohit Sharma breaks silence on SCG Test omission Taking on each bowler, Pant first attacked Boland, who picked the first three wickets, including removing the openers and star batter Kohli, before hammering debutant Beau Webster for successive fours. He upped the run rate with his counterattack, which he’s most famous for, before entering history books with his second-fastest Test fifty. In Rishabh Pant's 33-ball, 61-run innings: 🔥 6 fours 🔥 4 sixes And here's every one of those boundaries #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Hc3Sx66DSr — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 4, 2025 The moment came during Starc’s return spell when Pant smashed him for two massive sixes on the on-side, completing his fifty and leaving behind a massive impact. His knock switched the momentum towards India as their lead crossed 130 at the time of his wicket. Pant’s magic couldn’t stay for long as Aussie captain Pat Cummins dismissed him caught behind in his first over after lunch on 61. By then, India had lost five wickets, including that of Shubman Gill, Rohit’s replacement, who played another silly shot to gift his wicket. Boland on top Boland has been India’s nemesis since his inclusion in the side for the second Test as Josh Hazlewood’s replacement. Brought back for the Boxing Day Test, Boland played a crucial role in helping Australia beat India at the MCG for the first time since 2011, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. He, however, continued his golden form in the series decider in Sydney, picking four wickets in the first and as many thus far in the second, including getting rid of Nitish Kumar Reddy on four - his third single-digit score since his maiden Test ton at the ‘G’. Just at the stroke of stumps on day two, Australia dropped Ravindra Jadeja in the slips, with India’s scorecard 141/6, leading by 145 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH

Rohit Sharma surprised one and all by 'opting to rest' for the fifth and final Test between India and Australia, of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the SCG, Sydney on Friday (Jan 3). On Day 1 of the series finale, Jasprit Bumrah walked out for the toss as he revealed that out-of-form Rohit has opted out of the contest. After the day's play, Rishabh Pant opined on Rohit's call.&nbsp;
<h2>'It was an emotional decision....'</h2>
"I think definitely it was an emotional decision because he has been captain for a long time. We see him as a leader of the team. But, there are some decisions in which you are not involved with. And it's a management call. I was not part of that conversation. So can't explain anything more than that," Pant told the reporters after the stumps on Day 1 of the SCG Test.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/scg-test-rishabh-pant-suffers-series-of-blows-on-day-1-of-bgt-2024-25-series-finale-watch-video-8587828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers series of blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch</a>
At the toss, Bumrah, who replaced Rohit as captain, stated, "Our captain has shown leadership by opting to rest in this game. That shows there's a lot of unity in this team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest we are looking to do that."
India made two changes to their playing XI, from the MCG Test, with Rohit and Akash making space for Shubman Gill and Prasidh Krishna, respectively.&nbsp;
Rohit's absence from the pre-match presser, on Thursday (Jan 2), raised speculations of his participation in the SCG Test match. Hitman has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024, averaging 24.50, and has scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. His decision to rest has led to many former cricketers claiming that Rohit has played his last Test and will retire from the format very soon.
For Bumrah-led India, they opted to bat first in the Sydney Test and were bundled out for 185 with Pant top-scoring with 40. At stumps, Australia lost Usman Khawaja as they are 9/1, trailing by 176 runs.
Australia lead the five-match Test series 2-1 and will look for a win to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014/15.
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Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: 'Dropping himself was emotional call, can't...,' Rishabh Pant on Rohit Sharma opting out of SCG Test in Sydney 

Rohit Sharma surprised one and all by 'opting to rest' for the fifth and final Test between India and Australia, of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the SCG, Sydney on Friday (Jan 3). On Day 1 of the series finale, Jasprit Bumrah walked out for the toss as he revealed that out-of-form Rohit has opted out of the contest. After the day's play, Rishabh Pant opined on Rohit's call. 'It was an emotional decision....' "I think definitely it was an emotional decision because he has been captain for a long time. We see him as a leader of the team. But, there are some decisions in which you are not involved with. And it's a management call. I was not part of that conversation. So can't explain anything more than that," Pant told the reporters after the stumps on Day 1 of the SCG Test. Also read: SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers series of blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch At the toss, Bumrah, who replaced Rohit as captain, stated, "Our captain has shown leadership by opting to rest in this game. That shows there's a lot of unity in this team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest we are looking to do that." India made two changes to their playing XI, from the MCG Test, with Rohit and Akash making space for Shubman Gill and Prasidh Krishna, respectively. Rohit's absence from the pre-match presser, on Thursday (Jan 2), raised speculations of his participation in the SCG Test match. Hitman has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024, averaging 24.50, and has scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. His decision to rest has led to many former cricketers claiming that Rohit has played his last Test and will retire from the format very soon. For Bumrah-led India, they opted to bat first in the Sydney Test and were bundled out for 185 with Pant top-scoring with 40. At stumps, Australia lost Usman Khawaja as they are 9/1, trailing by 176 runs. Australia lead the five-match Test series 2-1 and will look for a win to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014/15.

BGT: 'Dropping himself was emotional call...,' Pant on Rohit opting out of SCG Test

India had a tough day on&nbsp; of the SCG Test, in Sydney, versus Australia on Friday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series finale, Jasprit Bumrah-led visitors got bundled out for 185 with Rishabh Pant top-scoring with 40. During his stay in the middle, Pant suffered a series of body blows as he made a hard-fought 40 (98).&nbsp;
Here is the video of Pant taking body blows on Day 1 of the Sydney Test:
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Rishabh Pant took a number of heavy hits to the body.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/TdyJ1qhm9C">pic.twitter.com/TdyJ1qhm9C</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875019635822559412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-stares-down-sam-konstas-as-duo-involved-in-heated-moment-on-day-1-of-scg-test-watch-8587643" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Bumrah stares down Konstas as duo involved in heated exchange on Day 1 of SCG Test - Watch</a>
The left-hander came out to bat at No. 5, after Shubman Gill fell for 20 with India reeling at 57-3. Pant stitched a 15-run stand with Virat Kohli, who once again edged one outside off-stump to depart for 17. The keeper-batter then stitched a vital 48-run sixth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (26) before falling for 40. He smashed a six and three fours during his stay, showing resistance in the middle but failed to capitalise on his start.&nbsp;
After Scott Boland's 4-fer dismissed India for 185, the visitors reduced Australia to 9 for 1 at stumps. Earlier in the day, Bumrah walked out for the toss as Rohit Sharma 'opted to rest' amid his poor run of form.
Pat Cummins-led Australia lead the five-match series 2-1 after a win in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne.

Cricket, Sports | SCG Test: Indian batter Rishabh Pant suffered several blows on Day 1 of series finale in Sydney - Watch viral video 

India had a tough day on of the SCG Test, in Sydney, versus Australia on Friday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series finale, Jasprit Bumrah-led visitors got bundled out for 185 with Rishabh Pant top-scoring with 40. During his stay in the middle, Pant suffered a series of body blows as he made a hard-fought 40 (98). Here is the video of Pant taking body blows on Day 1 of the Sydney Test: Rishabh Pant took a number of heavy hits to the body.#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/TdyJ1qhm9C — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025 Also read: Bumrah stares down Konstas as duo involved in heated exchange on Day 1 of SCG Test - Watch The left-hander came out to bat at No. 5, after Shubman Gill fell for 20 with India reeling at 57-3. Pant stitched a 15-run stand with Virat Kohli, who once again edged one outside off-stump to depart for 17. The keeper-batter then stitched a vital 48-run sixth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (26) before falling for 40. He smashed a six and three fours during his stay, showing resistance in the middle but failed to capitalise on his start. After Scott Boland's 4-fer dismissed India for 185, the visitors reduced Australia to 9 for 1 at stumps. Earlier in the day, Bumrah walked out for the toss as Rohit Sharma 'opted to rest' amid his poor run of form. Pat Cummins-led Australia lead the five-match series 2-1 after a win in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne.

SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch

Melbourne, Australia: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar was absolutely livid with the shot Rishabh Pant played and got out on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out.
<h2>Sunil Gavaskar questions Rishabh Pant's shot selection</h2>
"Stupid, stupid, stupid," was Gavaskar's immediate reaction on commentary. Have a look at the shot below:
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<a href="https://t.co/yxc8oQ4Iu2">pic.twitter.com/yxc8oQ4Iu2</a>
&mdash; Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) <a href="https://twitter.com/gavaskar_theman/status/1872805545100591257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>

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"You've got two fielders there, and you still go for that, you've missed the previous shot. And look where you've been caught. You've been caught at deep third man. That is throwing away your wicket. Not in the situation that India was. You have to understand the situation as well, you cannot say that that's your natural game. I'm sorry, that is not your natural game. That is a stupid shot. That is letting your team down badly!"
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-nitish-reddy-keeps-india-afloat-in-boxing-day-test-with-maiden-hundred-8572499">BGT: Nitish Reddy keeps India afloat in Boxing Day Test with maiden hundred</a>
The former skipper, however, acknowledged that there was a bit of bad luck but still criticised the shot as irresponsible.
"I think earlier on, when there had been no fielders around, that's when he's attempted these shots, that is understandable because you're taking a very good chance," Gavaskar said on official broadcaster Star Sports during the lunch break. "That [the shot] was supposed to go to the leg side, that went to the off side, it actually tells you maybe [there was] a little bit of bad luck involved, but terrible selection of a shot to play at that particular point with two fielders down at deep square-leg and deep point."
India, however, were rescued by 127 runs partnership for the eighth wicket between Washington Sundar (50) and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy (105 not out).
India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG.

Sports Cricket News BGT: Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out at MCG on Day 3.

Melbourne, Australia: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar was absolutely livid with the shot Rishabh Pant played and got out on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out. Sunil Gavaskar questions Rishabh Pant's shot selection "Stupid, stupid, stupid," was Gavaskar's immediate reaction on commentary. Have a look at the shot below: pic.twitter.com/yxc8oQ4Iu2 — Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) December 28, 2024 "You've got two fielders there, and you still go for that, you've missed the previous shot. And look where you've been caught. You've been caught at deep third man. That is throwing away your wicket. Not in the situation that India was. You have to understand the situation as well, you cannot say that that's your natural game. I'm sorry, that is not your natural game. That is a stupid shot. That is letting your team down badly!" Also Read: BGT: Nitish Reddy keeps India afloat in Boxing Day Test with maiden hundred The former skipper, however, acknowledged that there was a bit of bad luck but still criticised the shot as irresponsible. "I think earlier on, when there had been no fielders around, that's when he's attempted these shots, that is understandable because you're taking a very good chance," Gavaskar said on official broadcaster Star Sports during the lunch break. "That [the shot] was supposed to go to the leg side, that went to the off side, it actually tells you maybe [there was] a little bit of bad luck involved, but terrible selection of a shot to play at that particular point with two fielders down at deep square-leg and deep point." India, however, were rescued by 127 runs partnership for the eighth wicket between Washington Sundar (50) and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy (105 not out). India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG.

BGT 2024-25: Gavaskar livid with 'terrible selection' of Rishabh Pant

Almost a fortnight after the much-discussed IPL auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Delhi Capitals' new head coach Hemang Badani opened up on Rishabh Pant’s shock departure from the franchise. Per DC’s co-owner Parth Jindal, Pant leaving the IPL team he captained the previous season was never about the money. But Badani’s comments tell a different story.

Pant entered the IPL 2025 mega auction for a purpose, and with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bagging him for a whopping $3.18 million (INR 27 crore), making him the costliest player ever, it perhaps served it.

Although DC also chased Pant, even willing to use an RTM or right to match option for him at $2.4mn (INR 21 crore), LSG outbid them, offering Pant the staggering amount and eventually securing him for three seasons.

In a chat with former India cricketer and CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath during a YouTube show, Badani revealed what happened behind the scenes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-siraj-head-may-face-repercussions-for-adelaide-brawl-as-iccs-disciplinary-hearing-looms-report-782572">BGT: Siraj, Head may face repercussions for Adelaide brawl as ICC’s disciplinary hearing looms - Report</a>

"I think it's the other way around. He wanted not to be retained. He said he wanted to go to the auction and test the market. If you want to retain a player, both parties (the team and the player) have to agree on certain things. We tried talking to him; the management tried talking to him. There were a lot of phone calls and messages exchanged," Badani revealed.&nbsp;

Badani also admitted that Delhi was always keen to retain Pant in the first place.

However, the India keeper-batter insisted on entering the auction and testing the market, believing chances of him getting for money were higher, which eventually happened.&nbsp;

“Yes (Delhi Capitals were interested in retaining him). He said he wanted to go to the auction and test the market. He said he had a feeling that there were chances he would get more money than the highest cap for retained player, which is Rs 18 crore."&nbsp;

"And, at the end of the day, he felt he was worth more. And the market said the same thing. He got Rs 27 crore. Good for him. He is a very good player. We will obviously miss him. But, life goes on," Badani added.&nbsp;

In a social media statement earlier, Pant had said the decision not to continue playing for DC wasn’t motivated by money.&nbsp;

"My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say," he said.

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My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say 🤍
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1858745953756303689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Brotherhood'</h2>

Jindal&nbsp; meanwhile took to social media to pay gratitude for his relationship with Pant and what he meant to the franchise and him.&nbsp;

“To Rishabh @RishabhPant17 you are and will always remain my younger brother - from the bottom of my heart I love you and I have tried everything to make sure you are happy and have treated you like my family.&nbsp;

“I am very sad to see you go and I am very emotional about it. You will always be in DC and I hope one day we can reunite. Thank you for everything Rishabh and remember that we will always love you - go well champ, the world is at your feet. Best wishes from all of us at @DelhiCapitals - other than when you play DC I will be cheering and hoping for the best for you!” Jindal wrote on X.&nbsp;

To which, Pant responded, "Thanku bhaiya the feeling is mutual. Means a lot."

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Thanku bhaiya the feeling is mutual. Means a lot 😇😇
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1861346434441793558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Delhi, however, made some smart calls in this auction, bagging KL Rahul (potential captain) for $1.65mn (INR 14 crore) and Mitchell Starc for $1.29mn (INR 11 crore).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Almost a fortnight after the much-discussed IPL auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Delhi Capitals' new head coach Hemang Badani opened up on Rishabh Pant’s shock departure from the franchise.

Almost a fortnight after the much-discussed IPL auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Delhi Capitals' new head coach Hemang Badani opened up on Rishabh Pant’s shock departure from the franchise. Per DC’s co-owner Parth Jindal, Pant leaving the IPL team he captained the previous season was never about the money. But Badani’s comments tell a different story. Pant entered the IPL 2025 mega auction for a purpose, and with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bagging him for a whopping $3.18 million (INR 27 crore), making him the costliest player ever, it perhaps served it. Although DC also chased Pant, even willing to use an RTM or right to match option for him at $2.4mn (INR 21 crore), LSG outbid them, offering Pant the staggering amount and eventually securing him for three seasons. In a chat with former India cricketer and CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath during a YouTube show, Badani revealed what happened behind the scenes. ALSO READ: BGT: Siraj, Head may face repercussions for Adelaide brawl as ICC’s disciplinary hearing looms - Report "I think it's the other way around. He wanted not to be retained. He said he wanted to go to the auction and test the market. If you want to retain a player, both parties (the team and the player) have to agree on certain things. We tried talking to him; the management tried talking to him. There were a lot of phone calls and messages exchanged," Badani revealed. Badani also admitted that Delhi was always keen to retain Pant in the first place. However, the India keeper-batter insisted on entering the auction and testing the market, believing chances of him getting for money were higher, which eventually happened. “Yes (Delhi Capitals were interested in retaining him). He said he wanted to go to the auction and test the market. He said he had a feeling that there were chances he would get more money than the highest cap for retained player, which is Rs 18 crore." "And, at the end of the day, he felt he was worth more. And the market said the same thing. He got Rs 27 crore. Good for him. He is a very good player. We will obviously miss him. But, life goes on," Badani added. In a social media statement earlier, Pant had said the decision not to continue playing for DC wasn’t motivated by money. "My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say," he said. My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say 🤍 — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) November 19, 2024 × 'Brotherhood' Jindal meanwhile took to social media to pay gratitude for his relationship with Pant and what he meant to the franchise and him. “To Rishabh @RishabhPant17 you are and will always remain my younger brother - from the bottom of my heart I love you and I have tried everything to make sure you are happy and have treated you like my family. “I am very sad to see you go and I am very emotional about it. You will always be in DC and I hope one day we can reunite. Thank you for everything Rishabh and remember that we will always love you - go well champ, the world is at your feet. Best wishes from all of us at @DelhiCapitals - other than when you play DC I will be cheering and hoping for the best for you!” Jindal wrote on X. To which, Pant responded, "Thanku bhaiya the feeling is mutual. Means a lot." Thanku bhaiya the feeling is mutual. Means a lot 😇😇 — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) November 26, 2024 × Delhi, however, made some smart calls in this auction, bagging KL Rahul (potential captain) for $1.65mn (INR 14 crore) and Mitchell Starc for $1.29mn (INR 11 crore). (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: ‘He said he wanted to go…’ – Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani opens up on Rishabh Pant’s departure

Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Playing on Saturday (Dec 7) at the Adelaide Oval, Bumrah got the better of Smith for the second time in the series, this time via a brilliant catch from wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. The former Australia skipper had earlier been dismissed for a golden duck by Bumrah in the first innings of the Perth Test.

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Steve Smith is finished 
<a href="https://t.co/liR6iHrB2k">pic.twitter.com/liR6iHrB2k</a>
— Sagar Mhatre (@MhatreGang) <a href="https://twitter.com/MhatreGang/status/1865258373593350182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Bumrah stuns Smith</h2>

On the first ball of the 41st over that was going down the leg was nicked by Smith as it made its path away from the wicketkeeper. However, Pant dived superbly on his left to clutch Smith and get the better of him. The 35-year-old lasted for only 11 balls before he was sent packing home, having scored only two runs. The Aussie star also became the Indian vice-captain’s third wicket of the innings and he pushed for a comeback.

At the time of writing, Australia were 168/4 with Marnus Labuschagne top-scoring with 64. He was dismissed by Nitish Reddy with Yashasvi Jaiswal taking a superb catch at the gully. Australia trailed by 12 runs with Travis Head (32) and Mitchell March (0) in the middle.

Australia had earlier started the day from 86/1 as they lost Nathan McSweeney (39) shortly after the start.

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<h2>Can India mount a comeback?</h2>

With Australia destined to take the first innings lead, India will need a healthy contribution from their batters if they are to mount a comeback. Considering India’s recent batting woes, batters like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and others will need to come good. The team will also rely heavily on the services of Jaiswal and KL Rahul who impressed in the second innings of the Perth Test.

Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Steve Smith continued with his poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after he was scalped by Jasprit Bumrah in the first session of Day 2 in the ongoing pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Playing on Saturday (Dec 7) at the Adelaide Oval, Bumrah got the better of Smith for the second time in the series, this time via a brilliant catch from wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. The former Australia skipper had earlier been dismissed for a golden duck by Bumrah in the first innings of the Perth Test. Steve Smith is finished pic.twitter.com/liR6iHrB2k — Sagar Mhatre (@MhatreGang) December 7, 2024 × Bumrah stuns Smith On the first ball of the 41st over that was going down the leg was nicked by Smith as it made its path away from the wicketkeeper. However, Pant dived superbly on his left to clutch Smith and get the better of him. The 35-year-old lasted for only 11 balls before he was sent packing home, having scored only two runs. The Aussie star also became the Indian vice-captain’s third wicket of the innings and he pushed for a comeback. At the time of writing, Australia were 168/4 with Marnus Labuschagne top-scoring with 64. He was dismissed by Nitish Reddy with Yashasvi Jaiswal taking a superb catch at the gully. Australia trailed by 12 runs with Travis Head (32) and Mitchell March (0) in the middle. Australia had earlier started the day from 86/1 as they lost Nathan McSweeney (39) shortly after the start. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi named MLS Most Valuable Player after record-setting season Can India mount a comeback? With Australia destined to take the first innings lead, India will need a healthy contribution from their batters if they are to mount a comeback. Considering India’s recent batting woes, batters like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and others will need to come good. The team will also rely heavily on the services of Jaiswal and KL Rahul who impressed in the second innings of the Perth Test.

BGT 2024/25: Jasprit Bumrah stuns Steve Smith yet again as Rishabh Pant clutches brilliant catch - WATCH

Justin Langer, former Australian head coach, admitted that Rishabh Pant was his nemesis and 'haunted' him during the last two India-Australia Test series, held Down Under, but is relieved that he will be working closely with him at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025. Pant was roped in by the Lucknow franchise, for a whopping INR 270 million (INR 27 crore) – the highest-ever in IPL auction. Langer took over as LSG coach before IPL 2024 and will be sharing the dressing room with the Indian keeper-batter.&nbsp;

<h2>'Now he’s my mate not my nemesis'</h2>

When Pant came out to bat on Day 1 of the second Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Adelaide, Langer said, on air, on Friday (Dec 6), "Rishabh Pant has haunted me the most from the last two series. Now a week ago, I hope he’s my favourite person in the world with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) picking him. Now he’s my mate not my nemesis."

During Langer's days as Australia's coach, from 2018-2022, India toured Australia twice for the BGT. On both occasions, India beat the Aussies on their home soil with Pant being one of the top performers. While in the 2018/19 series, Pant scored 350 runs – second-most overall – with a best of 159, he ended with 274 runs – third-most – during the 2020/21 series. He also accounted for 28 dismissals overall.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/adelaide-test-nitish-reddy-entertains-fans-with-reverse-sweep-six-off-scott-boland-on-day-1-watch-782002">Adelaide Test: Nitish Reddy entertains fans with REVERSE SWEEP SIX off Scott Boland on Day 1 - WATCH</a>

As a result, India won both the series 2-1. Thus, Langer achieved a lot of success as Australia's coach but couldn't prevent India from becoming the first Asian team to win a Test series in Australia, in 2018/19, and replicate their success in 2020/21.

After LSG bought Pant in IPL 2025 mega auction, held in Saudi Arabia last month, Langer would be eager to work with the star Indian keeper-batter. He is expected to lead the Lucknow franchise, however, an official announcement is awaited.

Currently, Pant-starrer India is involved in the second Test versus Australia, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India bundled out for 180 with Nitish Reddy top-scoring with 42. Pant (21), KL Rahul (37), Shubman Gill (31) and R Ashwin (22) also chipped in but couldn't make a big score.

Justin Langer, former Australian head coach, admitted that Rishabh Pant was his nemesis and 'haunted' him during the last two India-Australia Test series, held Down Under, but is relieved that he will be working closely with him at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025.

Justin Langer, former Australian head coach, admitted that Rishabh Pant was his nemesis and 'haunted' him during the last two India-Australia Test series, held Down Under, but is relieved that he will be working closely with him at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025. Pant was roped in by the Lucknow franchise, for a whopping INR 270 million (INR 27 crore) – the highest-ever in IPL auction. Langer took over as LSG coach before IPL 2024 and will be sharing the dressing room with the Indian keeper-batter. 'Now he’s my mate not my nemesis' When Pant came out to bat on Day 1 of the second Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Adelaide, Langer said, on air, on Friday (Dec 6), "Rishabh Pant has haunted me the most from the last two series. Now a week ago, I hope he’s my favourite person in the world with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) picking him. Now he’s my mate not my nemesis." During Langer's days as Australia's coach, from 2018-2022, India toured Australia twice for the BGT. On both occasions, India beat the Aussies on their home soil with Pant being one of the top performers. While in the 2018/19 series, Pant scored 350 runs – second-most overall – with a best of 159, he ended with 274 runs – third-most – during the 2020/21 series. He also accounted for 28 dismissals overall. Also read: Adelaide Test: Nitish Reddy entertains fans with REVERSE SWEEP SIX off Scott Boland on Day 1 - WATCH As a result, India won both the series 2-1. Thus, Langer achieved a lot of success as Australia's coach but couldn't prevent India from becoming the first Asian team to win a Test series in Australia, in 2018/19, and replicate their success in 2020/21. After LSG bought Pant in IPL 2025 mega auction, held in Saudi Arabia last month, Langer would be eager to work with the star Indian keeper-batter. He is expected to lead the Lucknow franchise, however, an official announcement is awaited. Currently, Pant-starrer India is involved in the second Test versus Australia, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India bundled out for 180 with Nitish Reddy top-scoring with 42. Pant (21), KL Rahul (37), Shubman Gill (31) and R Ashwin (22) also chipped in but couldn't make a big score.

'Pant haunted me in last two series but...,' Langer on working with Indian star after LSG’s bumper IPL deal

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) Sanjiv Goenka explained why he was adamant about having Rishabh Pant in his franchise for IPL 2025. In the recently-held IPL 2025 auction, in Saudi Arabia, Pant became the most expensive player, breaking the bank&nbsp;for INR 270 million (INR 27 crore). Goenka revealed how he saw a video of Pant and was keen to have someone like him&nbsp;in the LSG dressing room.

Talking on Aakash Chopra's YouTube channel, Goenka said, "I saw a video of Rishabh where he did&nbsp;dramebaazi&nbsp;(acting) on the field. He slowed the momentum (talking about Pant's act from the 2024 T20 World Cup final). I liked that attitude a lot, that you have that extra thought to change the momentum when everything was going against us by removing the pads. From that time, I had in my mind that if only Rishabh had been in my team."

"That one thing of his appealed to me a lot. Along with that, he came back from a near-fatal injury, and he has come back to a form which is better than his original form. So that resilience and ability to fight and rise again matter a lot. Rishabh is 27. So I hope he will be with LSG for the next 10-12 years."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ajinkya-rahane-not-venkatesh-iyer-leads-race-to-captain-kkr-in-ipl-2025-report-780769">Ajinkya Rahane, not Venkatesh Iyer, leads race to captain KKR in IPL 2025 – Report</a>

Goenka also spoke about LSG's new-look squad, also comprising Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Avesh Khan, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, etc. "Our internal feeling is that our auction was excellent. Our focus was that our middle order and finishing should be extremely strong. Our No. 3 to No. 8 is very strong. Our second wish was to go with a completely Indian pace attack instead of international pace, and explosive international batters. Now we have got a combination of the two."

Hinting at the next captain, the owner added, "We have four leaders in our team - Rishabh, Pooran, Markram and Mitch Marsh. So it becomes a very strong leadership pool of intellect and thought, and strategy. They are all people who can go with the mindset to win. Rishabh has the hunger and passion to win. So a good team has been built. We are happy. Overall, the balance is also okay and no team is 10 on 10."

LSG complete squad for IPL 2025

David Miller, Ayush Badoni, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Aryan Juyal, Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Arshin Kulkarni, Yuvraj Choudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Aiden Markram, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, Mohsin Khan, Shamar Joseph, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, M Siddharth, Digvesh Singh

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) Sanjiv Goenka explained why he was adamant about having Rishabh Pant in his franchise for IPL 2025. In the recently-held IPL 2025 auction, in Saudi Arabia, Pant became the most expensive player, breaking the bank for INR 270 million (INR 27 crore).

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) Sanjiv Goenka explained why he was adamant about having Rishabh Pant in his franchise for IPL 2025. In the recently-held IPL 2025 auction, in Saudi Arabia, Pant became the most expensive player, breaking the bank for INR 270 million (INR 27 crore). Goenka revealed how he saw a video of Pant and was keen to have someone like him in the LSG dressing room. Talking on Aakash Chopra's YouTube channel, Goenka said, "I saw a video of Rishabh where he did dramebaazi (acting) on the field. He slowed the momentum (talking about Pant's act from the 2024 T20 World Cup final). I liked that attitude a lot, that you have that extra thought to change the momentum when everything was going against us by removing the pads. From that time, I had in my mind that if only Rishabh had been in my team." "That one thing of his appealed to me a lot. Along with that, he came back from a near-fatal injury, and he has come back to a form which is better than his original form. So that resilience and ability to fight and rise again matter a lot. Rishabh is 27. So I hope he will be with LSG for the next 10-12 years." Also read: Ajinkya Rahane, not Venkatesh Iyer, leads race to captain KKR in IPL 2025 – Report Goenka also spoke about LSG's new-look squad, also comprising Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Avesh Khan, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, etc. "Our internal feeling is that our auction was excellent. Our focus was that our middle order and finishing should be extremely strong. Our No. 3 to No. 8 is very strong. Our second wish was to go with a completely Indian pace attack instead of international pace, and explosive international batters. Now we have got a combination of the two." Hinting at the next captain, the owner added, "We have four leaders in our team - Rishabh, Pooran, Markram and Mitch Marsh. So it becomes a very strong leadership pool of intellect and thought, and strategy. They are all people who can go with the mindset to win. Rishabh has the hunger and passion to win. So a good team has been built. We are happy. Overall, the balance is also okay and no team is 10 on 10." LSG complete squad for IPL 2025 David Miller, Ayush Badoni, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Aryan Juyal, Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Arshin Kulkarni, Yuvraj Choudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Aiden Markram, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, Mohsin Khan, Shamar Joseph, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, M Siddharth, Digvesh Singh

LSG owner explains why he broke the bank for Rishabh Pant, hints who can lead franchise in IPL 2025

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction concluded on Monday (Nov 25) with 182 players added to the roster of 10 teams as record money was spent in the two-day bidding event in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah. A combined INR 6.39 billion ($76mn) was spent on the players as Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive buy for a record fee of INR 270mn ($3.2mn). Franchises also showed interest in uncapped players while some big names were ignored. Here are some key takeaways from the IPL 2025 mega auction as the countdown begins for the richest league in the world.

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Presenting the squads of all the 🔟 teams at the end of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPLAuction</a> 🔥🔥 
 
We can't wait for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2025 to begin 🥳 <a href="https://t.co/kQhm65UblK">pic.twitter.com/kQhm65UblK</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1861130579649143159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Indian players top the shopping list</h2>

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were the two most expensive purchases in the IPL 2024 mini-auction, but that was not the case this time. All 10 franchises were focused on bringing in Indian names, highlighting the value of homegrown talent. With Pant leading the charge, no foreign player features in the top five most expensive players bought in the IPL 2025 auction. Shreyas Iyer was sold for INR 260.75mn ($3.1mn) to Punjab Kings, followed by Venkatesh Iyer, who returned to Kolkata Knight Riders for 237.75mn ($2.8mn).

<h2>Franchises not keen on aging players</h2>

Despite having a tremendous sum in their pocket, no franchise was interested in getting players at the wrong end of the aging scale. Steve Smith, David Warner, and James Anderson were some big names that went unsold in the mega auction. Interestingly, India’s Shardul Thakur also featured on the list, which came as a huge surprise for many.

<h2>Uncapped Vaibhav Suryavanshi headlines auction</h2>

At just 13, uncapped Vaibhav Suryavanshi raised keen interest on day two of the auction after he was bought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 11mn ($130,000). He became the youngest player ever to be bought in an IPL auction, breaking another record. Suryavanshi hails from Bihar and is one of the young prospects with high expectations.

<h2>Teams remain cautious on squad depth</h2>

All franchises went big in the auction but still retained some amount to address injury issues in the squad. Not all amount was spent by all franchises giving them the edge of purchasing another player in case someone pulls out or is not available due to international duty or injury. Franchise owners could go for uncapped and unsold players from the auction if they still have funds to strengthen their squads.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction concluded on Monday (Nov 25) with 182 players added to the roster of 10 teams as record money was spent in the two-day bidding event in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction concluded on Monday (Nov 25) with 182 players added to the roster of 10 teams as record money was spent in the two-day bidding event in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah. A combined INR 6.39 billion ($76mn) was spent on the players as Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive buy for a record fee of INR 270mn ($3.2mn). Franchises also showed interest in uncapped players while some big names were ignored. Here are some key takeaways from the IPL 2025 mega auction as the countdown begins for the richest league in the world. Presenting the squads of all the 🔟 teams at the end of #TATAIPLAuction 🔥🔥 We can't wait for #TATAIPL 2025 to begin 🥳 pic.twitter.com/kQhm65UblK — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) November 25, 2024 × Indian players top the shopping list Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were the two most expensive purchases in the IPL 2024 mini-auction, but that was not the case this time. All 10 franchises were focused on bringing in Indian names, highlighting the value of homegrown talent. With Pant leading the charge, no foreign player features in the top five most expensive players bought in the IPL 2025 auction. Shreyas Iyer was sold for INR 260.75mn ($3.1mn) to Punjab Kings, followed by Venkatesh Iyer, who returned to Kolkata Knight Riders for 237.75mn ($2.8mn). Franchises not keen on aging players Despite having a tremendous sum in their pocket, no franchise was interested in getting players at the wrong end of the aging scale. Steve Smith, David Warner, and James Anderson were some big names that went unsold in the mega auction. Interestingly, India’s Shardul Thakur also featured on the list, which came as a huge surprise for many. Uncapped Vaibhav Suryavanshi headlines auction At just 13, uncapped Vaibhav Suryavanshi raised keen interest on day two of the auction after he was bought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 11mn ($130,000). He became the youngest player ever to be bought in an IPL auction, breaking another record. Suryavanshi hails from Bihar and is one of the young prospects with high expectations. Teams remain cautious on squad depth All franchises went big in the auction but still retained some amount to address injury issues in the squad. Not all amount was spent by all franchises giving them the edge of purchasing another player in case someone pulls out or is not available due to international duty or injury. Franchise owners could go for uncapped and unsold players from the auction if they still have funds to strengthen their squads.

IPL 2025 mega auction: Key takeaways as franchises splurge whopping $76mn on 182 players

India's top wicketkeeper-batter becomes the costliest buy in the history of the league as Super Giants buys him out for ₹27 crore. Shreyas Iyer follows closely who was picked by Punjab Kings for Rs 26.75 crore. Watch to know more!

IPL Auction 2025: LSG Bags Rishabh Pant For Rs 27 crore, Becomes Most Expensive Player | World News

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22). Debutant Nitish Reddy (41) ended as the highest run-scorer whereas Rishabh Pant entertained during his 37 but couldn't score big as Josh Hazlewood returned with 4 for 29. During Pant's stay in the middle, the swashbuckling left-hander smacked Australian captain Pat Cummins for a six, sweeping one&nbsp;over the fine-leg boundary.

Here is the viral video:&nbsp;

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As only Rishabh Pant can do! 6️⃣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/vupPuWA8GG">pic.twitter.com/vupPuWA8GG</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1859848391137599831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohli-dismissed-by-a-peach-off-a-delivery-from-josh-hazlewood-on-day-1-of-perth-test-watch-778230">Ind vs Aus: Virat Kohli dismissed by a peach off a delivery from Josh Hazlewood on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch</a>

Talking about the delivery, it was a&nbsp;full-length ball angled in around off as Pant fell&nbsp;over to the off-side while getting under the ball to smack it over the fine-leg boundary for an impressive six. Despite this, the 27-year-old couldn't stay in the middle for long as Cummins had the last laugh by outfoxing him. The left-hander edged one to the slips where Steve Smith plucked an easy catch.&nbsp;

Apart from Pant and Reddy's 48-run stand, for the seventh wicket, nothing clicked for India as they bundled out for 150 in 49.4 overs. However, they have bounced back in style with the ball as Jasprit Bumrah-led India has reduced Australia to 37 for 4 at the time of publishing this report. The visitors will have to dismiss the Aussies for a low score to stay alive in the contest.

India are without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test. He missed out due to the birth of his second child but will join the Indian squad on Nov 24 (Sunday).&nbsp;

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22).

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22). Debutant Nitish Reddy (41) ended as the highest run-scorer whereas Rishabh Pant entertained during his 37 but couldn't score big as Josh Hazlewood returned with 4 for 29. During Pant's stay in the middle, the swashbuckling left-hander smacked Australian captain Pat Cummins for a six, sweeping one over the fine-leg boundary. Here is the viral video: As only Rishabh Pant can do! 6️⃣#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/vupPuWA8GG — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024 × Also read: Ind vs Aus: Virat Kohli dismissed by a peach off a delivery from Josh Hazlewood on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch Talking about the delivery, it was a full-length ball angled in around off as Pant fell over to the off-side while getting under the ball to smack it over the fine-leg boundary for an impressive six. Despite this, the 27-year-old couldn't stay in the middle for long as Cummins had the last laugh by outfoxing him. The left-hander edged one to the slips where Steve Smith plucked an easy catch. Apart from Pant and Reddy's 48-run stand, for the seventh wicket, nothing clicked for India as they bundled out for 150 in 49.4 overs. However, they have bounced back in style with the ball as Jasprit Bumrah-led India has reduced Australia to 37 for 4 at the time of publishing this report. The visitors will have to dismiss the Aussies for a low score to stay alive in the contest. India are without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test. He missed out due to the birth of his second child but will join the Indian squad on Nov 24 (Sunday).

Ind vs Aus: Rishabh Pant smacks Pat Cummins for a jaw-dropping SIX on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch

The stage is set for India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, with the first Test set to begin Friday (Nov. 22) in Perth, Australia. India emerged victorious on their last two Down Under tours, but this time the task at hand seems tougher than ever.

With no Mohammed Shami for probably the entire series, no Rohit Sharma for the first Test, an out-of-form Virat Kohli, and most probably no Shubman Gill in Perth, India look underdogs. Their recent 0-3 Test series loss at home against New Zealand before coming to Australia isn't putting much confidence in India's chances either.

India, nonetheless, will be looking at their last tour in 2020-21, when almost a second-string side beat Australia to win their second consecutive series Down Under. They'd be hoping for something like that on the current tour as well, and here are the five players who can shape the outcome of this series in India's favour:

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-india-are-coming-to-pakistan-believes-former-pak-pacer-shoaib-akhtar-777718">Champions Trophy 2025: 'India is coming to Pakistan,' believes former Pak pacer Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Rishabh Pant

India's boy wonder in Australia - Pant has scored 624 runs at an average of 62.40 with one hundred and two fifties (97 and 89 not out) in Australia in just 12 innings of seven Tests. He'll be a key batter for India if they were to win for the third consecutive time Down Under and with Kohli being out of form, the onus of middle order lies on Pant more than ever.

Yashasvi Jaiswal

The opener has been one of the breakthrough Test players for India ever since he made his debut in 2023. The southpaw has scored 1,407 runs in 14 Tests he has played so far at an average of 56 with three tons and eight fifties. Australia is going to be a true test of his skills and concentration. His contributions up the order are going to be the most crucial for India, which has a middle order without Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara.

KL Rahul

Rahul announced his arrival with a sublime 110 in Sydney on the tour of 2014-15 but has not lived up to the talent he has ever since. The batter has floated up and down the order in his 53 Tests, batting as high as an opener and as low as number six. He's set to open the innings in Perth with Jaiswal in Rohit's absence, and his performance in the series could very well define his future Test career.

Jasprit Bumrah

The undisputed pace leader of India and arguably the best bowler in the world currently, Bumrah holds the key for India if they are to win on pacy and bouncy Aussie pitches. He won't have Shami for support, and that makes his presence ever so important for India. For India to win, Bumrah doesn't really have any other&nbsp;option but to get going from ball one in Perth.

Akash Deep

The pacer has impressed with his skills in the five Tests he has played so far. He'll be an important part of India's pace department, and his ability to hit the deck hard to get the extra bounce can be very useful on the bouncing pitches. The series could make him India's preferred number three pacer behind Bumrah and Shami and his performance on the tour can help India keep the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The stage is set for India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, with the first Test set to begin Friday (Nov. 22) in Perth, Australia. India emerged victorious on their last two Down Under tours, but this time the task at hand seems tougher than ever.

The stage is set for India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, with the first Test set to begin Friday (Nov. 22) in Perth, Australia. India emerged victorious on their last two Down Under tours, but this time the task at hand seems tougher than ever. With no Mohammed Shami for probably the entire series, no Rohit Sharma for the first Test, an out-of-form Virat Kohli, and most probably no Shubman Gill in Perth, India look underdogs. Their recent 0-3 Test series loss at home against New Zealand before coming to Australia isn't putting much confidence in India's chances either. India, nonetheless, will be looking at their last tour in 2020-21, when almost a second-string side beat Australia to win their second consecutive series Down Under. They'd be hoping for something like that on the current tour as well, and here are the five players who can shape the outcome of this series in India's favour: Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'India is coming to Pakistan,' believes former Pak pacer Shoaib Akhtar Rishabh Pant India's boy wonder in Australia - Pant has scored 624 runs at an average of 62.40 with one hundred and two fifties (97 and 89 not out) in Australia in just 12 innings of seven Tests. He'll be a key batter for India if they were to win for the third consecutive time Down Under and with Kohli being out of form, the onus of middle order lies on Pant more than ever. Yashasvi Jaiswal The opener has been one of the breakthrough Test players for India ever since he made his debut in 2023. The southpaw has scored 1,407 runs in 14 Tests he has played so far at an average of 56 with three tons and eight fifties. Australia is going to be a true test of his skills and concentration. His contributions up the order are going to be the most crucial for India, which has a middle order without Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. KL Rahul Rahul announced his arrival with a sublime 110 in Sydney on the tour of 2014-15 but has not lived up to the talent he has ever since. The batter has floated up and down the order in his 53 Tests, batting as high as an opener and as low as number six. He's set to open the innings in Perth with Jaiswal in Rohit's absence, and his performance in the series could very well define his future Test career. Jasprit Bumrah The undisputed pace leader of India and arguably the best bowler in the world currently, Bumrah holds the key for India if they are to win on pacy and bouncy Aussie pitches. He won't have Shami for support, and that makes his presence ever so important for India. For India to win, Bumrah doesn't really have any other option but to get going from ball one in Perth. Akash Deep The pacer has impressed with his skills in the five Tests he has played so far. He'll be an important part of India's pace department, and his ability to hit the deck hard to get the extra bounce can be very useful on the bouncing pitches. The series could make him India's preferred number three pacer behind Bumrah and Shami and his performance on the tour can help India keep the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

BGT 2024-25: Five key India players who can shape the outcome of series

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant broke his silence on parting ways with IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC), ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, stating that the reason was not money.&nbsp;The swashbuckling keeper-batter, currently part of India's Test squad who is gearing up for the Australia series starting on Nov 22 (Friday) in Perth, responded to a post by one of the IPL broadcasters, where former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar reasoned out why Delhi chose to move on from Pant before the mega auction. Gavaskar felt the money was the main reason, however, Pant rubbished all such claims.&nbsp;

Responding to Gavaskar's claims, Pant wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say." Here is the post:

<img alt="Pant on DC retention" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b703ffb-433d-4651-82e0-b0bb385908a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PantonDC.JPG" />

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-202425-full-schedule-match-timings-squads-all-you-need-to-know-777288">Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Full schedule, match timings, squads - All you need to know</a>

Gavaskar had told Star Sports, "What I feel is Delhi Capitals would want Rishabh Pant back in their squad. Sometimes, when a player has to be retained, there are talks between the franchise and players over the fees, as expected. As some of the players who have been retained by their franchises, they have gone for more than what the No. 1 retention fee deduction would be. So clearly, I think there may be some disagreement there. But, my feeling is Delhi would want Rishabh Pant back."

Ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, slated to be held in&nbsp;Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Nov 24 and 25, DC announced their retention list, comprising Axar Patel (INR 165 million or 16.5 crore), Kuldeep Yadav (INR 135 million or 13.5 crore), Tristan Stubbs (INR 100 million or 10 crore) and Abhishek Porel (INR 40 million or 4 crore). Pant, who led DC in IPL 2021, IPL 2022 and IPL 2024, is set to enter the auction proceedings. He is expected to be sold at a whopping price. DC can use the Right To Match (RTM) card to bring back Pant, however, it seems the keeper-batter will find a new franchise for the next IPL edition.

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant broke his silence on parting ways with IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC), ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, stating that the reason was not money.

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant broke his silence on parting ways with IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC), ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, stating that the reason was not money. The swashbuckling keeper-batter, currently part of India's Test squad who is gearing up for the Australia series starting on Nov 22 (Friday) in Perth, responded to a post by one of the IPL broadcasters, where former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar reasoned out why Delhi chose to move on from Pant before the mega auction. Gavaskar felt the money was the main reason, however, Pant rubbished all such claims. Responding to Gavaskar's claims, Pant wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say." Here is the post: Also read: Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Full schedule, match timings, squads - All you need to know Gavaskar had told Star Sports, "What I feel is Delhi Capitals would want Rishabh Pant back in their squad. Sometimes, when a player has to be retained, there are talks between the franchise and players over the fees, as expected. As some of the players who have been retained by their franchises, they have gone for more than what the No. 1 retention fee deduction would be. So clearly, I think there may be some disagreement there. But, my feeling is Delhi would want Rishabh Pant back." Ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, slated to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Nov 24 and 25, DC announced their retention list, comprising Axar Patel (INR 165 million or 16.5 crore), Kuldeep Yadav (INR 135 million or 13.5 crore), Tristan Stubbs (INR 100 million or 10 crore) and Abhishek Porel (INR 40 million or 4 crore). Pant, who led DC in IPL 2021, IPL 2022 and IPL 2024, is set to enter the auction proceedings. He is expected to be sold at a whopping price. DC can use the Right To Match (RTM) card to bring back Pant, however, it seems the keeper-batter will find a new franchise for the next IPL edition.

Not about money: Rishabh Pant breaks silence on leaving Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

Former Australia captain Tim Paine has backed India’s Dhruv Jurel to be a lethal weapon Down Under as the two nations are set to collide in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The nations will lock horns in what will be an important series for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025. According to Paine, Jurel has all the abilities to succeed Down Under as a batter even if he is just a backup wicketkeeper for Rohit Sharma’s side.

<h2>Paine backs Jurel</h2>

“There’s a guy who has wicket-kept in a few Test matches for India. He averages 63 across the three Tests he’s played, and his name is Dhruv Jurel. Watching him bat, it was evident he has the temperament and skill for the longer format. Even though he’s primarily a wicketkeeper, I’d be surprised if he doesn’t feature in the series in some capacity,” Paine said while speaking to SEN Tassie.

Jurel has played in three Test matches for India and has shown glimpses of a fearless batter against big opposition. He made his debut against England earlier in the year in the red-ball format and has scored 190 runs in four innings across. While it is still early days, his approach could be the X-factor for the Indian team as they look to keep their faint WTC final hopes alive.

On the other hand, Rishabh Pant should be the Indian team’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, but it will be interesting to see whether Jurel gets a match as a pure batter if others struggle to find form.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-ban-rahmanullah-gurbaz-azmatullah-omarzai-propel-afghanistan-to-series-win-over-bangladesh-775377">Afg vs Ban: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai propel Afghanistan to series win over Bangladesh</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Former Australia captain Tim Paine has backed India’s Dhruv Jurel to be a lethal weapon Down Under as the two nations are set to collide in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Former Australia captain Tim Paine has backed India’s Dhruv Jurel to be a lethal weapon Down Under as the two nations are set to collide in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The nations will lock horns in what will be an important series for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025. According to Paine, Jurel has all the abilities to succeed Down Under as a batter even if he is just a backup wicketkeeper for Rohit Sharma’s side. Paine backs Jurel “There’s a guy who has wicket-kept in a few Test matches for India. He averages 63 across the three Tests he’s played, and his name is Dhruv Jurel. Watching him bat, it was evident he has the temperament and skill for the longer format. Even though he’s primarily a wicketkeeper, I’d be surprised if he doesn’t feature in the series in some capacity,” Paine said while speaking to SEN Tassie. Jurel has played in three Test matches for India and has shown glimpses of a fearless batter against big opposition. He made his debut against England earlier in the year in the red-ball format and has scored 190 runs in four innings across. While it is still early days, his approach could be the X-factor for the Indian team as they look to keep their faint WTC final hopes alive. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant should be the Indian team’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, but it will be interesting to see whether Jurel gets a match as a pure batter if others struggle to find form. ALSO READ | Afg vs Ban: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai propel Afghanistan to series win over Bangladesh The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Tim Paine picks THIS Indian batter over Rishabh Pant to succeed Down Under

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025. With CSK veteran MS Dhoni in the twilight stage of his IPL career, indicating wanting to enjoy his last few years in this cash-rich league, the Chennai-based outfit would be keen to bring in his like-to-like replacement, and what’s better than doing it at the mega auction scheduled in Jeddah on November 24 and 25.

For the first time since rumours of CSK wanting to bag Pant’s services at the auction began doing rounds, Kasi, while speaking with former CSK batter and trophy-winner Ambati Rayudu, broke his silence, insisting that discussions around the same took place with the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dhoni, CSK would aim to chase their core players instead of going after big names.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-england-pacer-james-anderson-reveals-reason-behind-signing-up-for-ipl-auction-774966">Ex-England pacer James Anderson reveals reason behind signing up for IPL auction</a>

It has been CSK’s strategy to retain their core players since the outset, a testament to their success in this league. With CSK retaining only five players, including Gaikwad, Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana, and considering their remaining purse of INR 55 crore out of INR 120-crore purse, chasing big Indian names, including Pant, KL Rahul or even Shreyas Iyer, could be out of their reach.&nbsp;

Kasi also admitted they discussed these scenarios before releasing the final retention list.

"We had discussions with Ruturaj, the captain, MS (Dhoni) and Coach Stephen Fleming before we decided on the retentions. We were very clear that the players that helped the team grow, stabilise in the previous years were the ones very important for the CSK team to continue further," Kasi said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

"It was very easy to decide on the retentions -- Gaikwad, Jaddu, MS, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana. But we knew that if we retain these players, we would have a lesser purse to go into the auction. We knew that we wouldn't be able to compete with the other teams when it comes to the best of the Indian players. I mean, we will still try, but I don't think we'll be able to get them at the auction," he continued.&nbsp;

<h2>CSK targets ex-players</h2>

With several players in the pipeline for CSK to go after from their previous squad, the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, Sri Lanka spinner Mahesh Theekshana and Indian seamer Deepak Chahar are among the favourites.

The five-time IPL winner could also get after local players picked during earlier auctions this time.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025. With CSK veteran MS Dhoni in the twilight stage of his IPL career, indicating wanting to enjoy his last few years in this cash-rich league, the Chennai-based outfit would be keen to bring in his like-to-like replacement, and what’s better than doing it at the mega auction scheduled in Jeddah on November 24 and 25. For the first time since rumours of CSK wanting to bag Pant’s services at the auction began doing rounds, Kasi, while speaking with former CSK batter and trophy-winner Ambati Rayudu, broke his silence, insisting that discussions around the same took place with the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dhoni, CSK would aim to chase their core players instead of going after big names. ALSO READ: Ex-England pacer James Anderson reveals reason behind signing up for IPL auction It has been CSK’s strategy to retain their core players since the outset, a testament to their success in this league. With CSK retaining only five players, including Gaikwad, Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana, and considering their remaining purse of INR 55 crore out of INR 120-crore purse, chasing big Indian names, including Pant, KL Rahul or even Shreyas Iyer, could be out of their reach. Kasi also admitted they discussed these scenarios before releasing the final retention list. "We had discussions with Ruturaj, the captain, MS (Dhoni) and Coach Stephen Fleming before we decided on the retentions. We were very clear that the players that helped the team grow, stabilise in the previous years were the ones very important for the CSK team to continue further," Kasi said, as quoted by Hindustan Times. "It was very easy to decide on the retentions -- Gaikwad, Jaddu, MS, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana. But we knew that if we retain these players, we would have a lesser purse to go into the auction. We knew that we wouldn't be able to compete with the other teams when it comes to the best of the Indian players. I mean, we will still try, but I don't think we'll be able to get them at the auction," he continued. CSK targets ex-players With several players in the pipeline for CSK to go after from their previous squad, the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, Sri Lanka spinner Mahesh Theekshana and Indian seamer Deepak Chahar are among the favourites. The five-time IPL winner could also get after local players picked during earlier auctions this time. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Kasi Viswanathan addresses CSK chasing Rishabh Pant rumours, says ‘discussions were…’

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs.

Pant was given bat-pad on Ajaz Patel's bowling. Initially, the on-field umpire gave it not out but New Zealand decided to review it and the third umpire overturned the decision.

"About that dismissal, I honestly, I don't know," Rohit opined after the match. "If we say something, it is not accepted well. But if there is not conclusive evidence, it has to stand with the umpire's on-field decision. That is what I have been told. So I don't know how that decision was overturned, since the umpire didn't give him out."

"The bat was clearly close to the pad. So, again, I don't know if it is the right thing for me to talk about. It is something for the umpires to think about. Have the same rules for every team, not keep changing their mind," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-in-danger-of-missing-wtc-final-after-new-zealand-whitewash-heres-how-they-can-still-make-it-772952">India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it</a>

India were rocked early in the chase of 147 but Rishabh Pant played another masterful innings of 64 runs in addition to his 60 runs in the first innings to get India on the cusp of win.

Pant's dismissal put the Kiwis on top and Ajaz Patel combined with Glenn Phillips to make sure India don't stage another comeback.

Patel finished the match with 11 wickets - his second 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in as many trips - as India were bundled out for 121 in their second innings.

The Kiwis only put cherry on top of their maiden Test series win against India by winning the third Test where India were bowled out for 121 in pursuit of a 147-run target.

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs.

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs. Pant was given bat-pad on Ajaz Patel's bowling. Initially, the on-field umpire gave it not out but New Zealand decided to review it and the third umpire overturned the decision. "About that dismissal, I honestly, I don't know," Rohit opined after the match. "If we say something, it is not accepted well. But if there is not conclusive evidence, it has to stand with the umpire's on-field decision. That is what I have been told. So I don't know how that decision was overturned, since the umpire didn't give him out." "The bat was clearly close to the pad. So, again, I don't know if it is the right thing for me to talk about. It is something for the umpires to think about. Have the same rules for every team, not keep changing their mind," he added. Also Read: India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it India were rocked early in the chase of 147 but Rishabh Pant played another masterful innings of 64 runs in addition to his 60 runs in the first innings to get India on the cusp of win. Pant's dismissal put the Kiwis on top and Ajaz Patel combined with Glenn Phillips to make sure India don't stage another comeback. Patel finished the match with 11 wickets - his second 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in as many trips - as India were bundled out for 121 in their second innings. The Kiwis only put cherry on top of their maiden Test series win against India by winning the third Test where India were bowled out for 121 in pursuit of a 147-run target.

'Umpire didn't give him out...,' India skipper Rohit Sharma on Rishabh Pant being given out in third NZ Test

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.

Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India&nbsp;losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-win-mumbai-test-to-claim-series-3-0-becomes-first-team-to-whitewash-india-in-india-772907">New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India</a>

"Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand.

“There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued.

<h2>Youngsters shone for India</h2>

Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone.

On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three.&nbsp;

"Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted.

Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series.

“But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth. Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1. ALSO READ: New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India "Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand. “There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued. Youngsters shone for India Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone. On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three. "Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted. Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series. “But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I wasn’t at my best as captain and with bat’ – Rohit Sharma takes responsibility for series whitewash to NZ

Ajaz Patel picked 11 wickets in Mumbai to help New Zealand win the third and final Test against India, claiming a 3-0 win – perhaps their greatest Test series win ever. Though Rishabh Pant tried saving India’s sinking ship with a gritty 64 in the second inning, a horror collective show with bat from the rest ensured India surrendered in the third straight Test this time.&nbsp;

With this series win, New Zealand became the first team to whitewash India in Tests in India.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> came close to the target but it's New Zealand who win the Third Test by 25 runs. 
 
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Almost three years after rocking the cricket world with his ten wickets in an innings against India in the Mumbai Test, New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel returned to haunt the hosts at the same venue, picking six wickets in the second innings, including removing big ones like Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and even domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan. With Washington Sundar’s wicket, Patel completed a historic win for New Zealand on this tour, helping them clinch an away Test series in India – the toughest feat to conquer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-allegations-rock-india-a-as-umpires-warn-ishan-kishan-for-showing-dissent-772861">Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent</a>

Chasing 147, India lost their captain, Rohit Sharma, to Matt Henry early in the innings before Patel accounted for Gill and Kohli to reduce India to 18 for three at one stage. Glenn Phillips got rid of Yashasvi Jaiswal on five before Patel returned to pick Sarfaraz Khan for the second time in this game to dent India’s morale.

Rishabh Pant's innings, however, was the only silver lining for the hosts, who, with his masterful counterattack, kept their hopes alive in this match.

Though Jadeja and Sundar provided little support from the other end, things began going downwards just after lunch, with India losing the remaining four wickets for 30 runs.

Phillips contributed with the ball in this Test, picking four wickets across both innings, including three in the second.&nbsp;

<h2>Pant – India’s saviour&nbsp;</h2>

Rishabh Pant was on song for India, hitting fifties in both innings. Though he made headlines for his heroics throughout this series, Gill’s 90 in the first innings laid the foundation for them to take the lead for the first time against New Zealand this time.

For the visitors, Daryl Mitchell (80) and Will Young (71) were the architects in the first innings, with Young continuing his brilliant touch in the next, hitting a standout 51.&nbsp;

For 244 runs across three matches, Young was named the Player of the Series.

Meanwhile, New Zealand was without their star batter, Kane Williamson, with Southee rested following the series win in Pune.

India will travel to Australia next for the marquee five-match Test series starting on November 22 in Perth, while New Zealand will host England for three Tests later this year.&nbsp;

Ajaz Patel picked 11 wickets in Mumbai to help New Zealand win the third and final Test against India, claiming a 3-0 win – perhaps their greatest Test series win ever.

Ajaz Patel picked 11 wickets in Mumbai to help New Zealand win the third and final Test against India, claiming a 3-0 win – perhaps their greatest Test series win ever. Though Rishabh Pant tried saving India’s sinking ship with a gritty 64 in the second inning, a horror collective show with bat from the rest ensured India surrendered in the third straight Test this time. With this series win, New Zealand became the first team to whitewash India in Tests in India. #TeamIndia came close to the target but it's New Zealand who win the Third Test by 25 runs. Scorecard - https://t.co/KNIvTEyxU7#INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/4BoVWm5HQP — BCCI (@BCCI) November 3, 2024 × Almost three years after rocking the cricket world with his ten wickets in an innings against India in the Mumbai Test, New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel returned to haunt the hosts at the same venue, picking six wickets in the second innings, including removing big ones like Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and even domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan. With Washington Sundar’s wicket, Patel completed a historic win for New Zealand on this tour, helping them clinch an away Test series in India – the toughest feat to conquer. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent Chasing 147, India lost their captain, Rohit Sharma, to Matt Henry early in the innings before Patel accounted for Gill and Kohli to reduce India to 18 for three at one stage. Glenn Phillips got rid of Yashasvi Jaiswal on five before Patel returned to pick Sarfaraz Khan for the second time in this game to dent India’s morale. Rishabh Pant's innings, however, was the only silver lining for the hosts, who, with his masterful counterattack, kept their hopes alive in this match. Though Jadeja and Sundar provided little support from the other end, things began going downwards just after lunch, with India losing the remaining four wickets for 30 runs. Phillips contributed with the ball in this Test, picking four wickets across both innings, including three in the second. Pant – India’s saviour Rishabh Pant was on song for India, hitting fifties in both innings. Though he made headlines for his heroics throughout this series, Gill’s 90 in the first innings laid the foundation for them to take the lead for the first time against New Zealand this time. For the visitors, Daryl Mitchell (80) and Will Young (71) were the architects in the first innings, with Young continuing his brilliant touch in the next, hitting a standout 51. For 244 runs across three matches, Young was named the Player of the Series. Meanwhile, New Zealand was without their star batter, Kane Williamson, with Southee rested following the series win in Pune. India will travel to Australia next for the marquee five-match Test series starting on November 22 in Perth, while New Zealand will host England for three Tests later this year.

New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three.

India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-allegations-rock-india-a-as-umpires-warn-ishan-kishan-for-showing-dissent-772861">Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump.

Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball.&nbsp;

However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase.

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𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪 
 
Watch the 3rd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> Test as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> chase victory, LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColorsCineplex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColorsCineplex</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPBNUJf5Y7">pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7</a>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1852941860404142139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand</h2>

Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings.&nbsp;

After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over.

With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three.

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one. Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three. India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump. Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball. However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase. 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪 Watch the 3rd #INDvNZ Test as #TeamIndia chase victory, LIVE on #JioCinema, #Sports18 and #ColorsCineplex 👈#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7 — JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 3, 2024 × Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings. After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over. With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

IND vs NZ 2024, 3rd Test, Day 3: Rishabh Pant’s counterattack keeps India alive in Mumbai run chase

Former India and Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Suresh Raina thinks Rishabh Pant will be wearing the yellow jersey soon. The comments come after Delhi Capitals (DC) decided to release Pant ahead of the IPL mega auction.

"I met MS Dhoni in Delhi, Pant was also there. I think something big is to happen. Someone will be wearing a yellow jersey soon," Raina said while talking to Jio Cinema.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/because-of-hero-worship-former-india-player-on-rcb-retaining-virat-kohli-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-772722">'Because of hero worship...,' Former India player on RCB retaining Virat Kohli ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

It is to be noted that Dhoni was one of the five players retained by CSK. The 43-year-old, however, is in the twilight years of his IPL career as well for long now.

Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, will be playing as an uncapped player in the upcoming IPL season under the new rule. The rule allows franchises to pick players who have been retired for five years from international cricket as uncapped players.

Pant, India's go-to wicketkeeper-batter at the moment, will be looked as Dhoni's long-time replacement if bought by CSK at the auction.

The left-hander had been with DC since he made his IPL debut in 2016 and played 111 matches for them. He has scored 3,284 runs so far at a strike rate of nearly 150 and an average of 35. The batter also has 18 fifties and one hundred to his name with a best of 128 not out.

Pant recently made a comeback to competitive cricket in IPL 2024 after almost 18 months of recovery following&nbsp;his life-threatening accident in December 2022.

He also played a crucial role in T20 World Cup 2024 which followed after the IPL and helped India win the title. Pant also has captaincy experience, having led DC in 43 matches, winning 23 and losing 19 of them and one being a tied game.

Former India and Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Suresh Raina thinks Rishabh Pant will be wearing the yellow jersey soon. The comments come after Delhi Capitals (DC) decided to release Pant ahead of the IPL mega auction.

Former India and Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) player Suresh Raina thinks Rishabh Pant will be wearing the yellow jersey soon. The comments come after Delhi Capitals (DC) decided to release Pant ahead of the IPL mega auction. "I met MS Dhoni in Delhi, Pant was also there. I think something big is to happen. Someone will be wearing a yellow jersey soon," Raina said while talking to Jio Cinema. Also Read: 'Because of hero worship...,' Former India player on RCB retaining Virat Kohli ahead of IPL mega auction It is to be noted that Dhoni was one of the five players retained by CSK. The 43-year-old, however, is in the twilight years of his IPL career as well for long now. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, will be playing as an uncapped player in the upcoming IPL season under the new rule. The rule allows franchises to pick players who have been retired for five years from international cricket as uncapped players. Pant, India's go-to wicketkeeper-batter at the moment, will be looked as Dhoni's long-time replacement if bought by CSK at the auction. The left-hander had been with DC since he made his IPL debut in 2016 and played 111 matches for them. He has scored 3,284 runs so far at a strike rate of nearly 150 and an average of 35. The batter also has 18 fifties and one hundred to his name with a best of 128 not out. Pant recently made a comeback to competitive cricket in IPL 2024 after almost 18 months of recovery following his life-threatening accident in December 2022. He also played a crucial role in T20 World Cup 2024 which followed after the IPL and helped India win the title. Pant also has captaincy experience, having led DC in 43 matches, winning 23 and losing 19 of them and one being a tied game.

Rishabh Pant joining CSK? Former batter Suresh Raina makes BIG statement ahead of IPL mega auction

Team India added 109 runs in the first session on day two of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai but lost Rishabh Pant on a well-made 60. The hosts cut the deficit to 40, as their scorecard read 195 for five in 43 overs at lunch. Like Pant, Shubman Gill also completed his fifty, cementing his place at number three in this format.

India began day two on a quieter note, with Gill and Pant taking time to settle down. The left-handed keeper-batter unleashed soon after, with the pair targeting Ajaz Patel, who accounted for two wickets late on day one to dent India’s momentum.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-mega-auction-ashwin-on-csks-bucket-list-as-franchise-looks-to-use-rtm-for-this-kiwi-star-reports-772662">IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Ashwin on CSK’s bucket list as franchise looks to use RTM for THIS Kiwi star - Reports</a>

While Pant took the attack to the spinner, launching sixes against his flighted deliveries, Gill kept finding gaps at will off Glenn Phillips and Patel.&nbsp;

At a point when they put on the fifth gear, Gill miscued one straight to deep long-on, only for the substitute fielder Mark Chapman to drop his catch on 45. The right-handed batter made most of this chance and completed another fifty batting at his new position.&nbsp;

New Zealand then introduced leg-spinner Ish Sodhi to the attack, who trapped Pant, plumb in the front on 60 soon after to put India’s back against the wall. Instead of sending Sarfaraz Khan in at number seven, India sent Ravindra Jadeja, continuing the left-right combination.

<h2>What’s next for India?</h2>

India is running a lost race here, having surrendered the home Test series to New Zealand for the first time in 12 years. However, the only silver lining for the hosts would be to win this Test, saving themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

With India trailing by 40 runs, they need a handsome partnership between Gill and Jadeja to take the lead and pile on it, putting pressure back on the Kiwis.&nbsp;

For India to take advantage of this situation, they must take a lead of over 100 runs; given Sarfaraz, Ashwin and Sundar are yet to bat, they are in for a long day with the bat in hand.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, considering the pitch on offer will assist the spinners, the Indian spin trio of Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar would be licking their lips over the same in the second innings.

Team India added 109 runs in the first session on day two of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai but lost Rishabh Pant on a well-made 60. The hosts cut the deficit to 40, as their scorecard read 195 for five in 43 overs at lunch.

Team India added 109 runs in the first session on day two of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai but lost Rishabh Pant on a well-made 60. The hosts cut the deficit to 40, as their scorecard read 195 for five in 43 overs at lunch. Like Pant, Shubman Gill also completed his fifty, cementing his place at number three in this format. India began day two on a quieter note, with Gill and Pant taking time to settle down. The left-handed keeper-batter unleashed soon after, with the pair targeting Ajaz Patel, who accounted for two wickets late on day one to dent India’s momentum. ALSO READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Ashwin on CSK’s bucket list as franchise looks to use RTM for THIS Kiwi star - Reports While Pant took the attack to the spinner, launching sixes against his flighted deliveries, Gill kept finding gaps at will off Glenn Phillips and Patel. At a point when they put on the fifth gear, Gill miscued one straight to deep long-on, only for the substitute fielder Mark Chapman to drop his catch on 45. The right-handed batter made most of this chance and completed another fifty batting at his new position. New Zealand then introduced leg-spinner Ish Sodhi to the attack, who trapped Pant, plumb in the front on 60 soon after to put India’s back against the wall. Instead of sending Sarfaraz Khan in at number seven, India sent Ravindra Jadeja, continuing the left-right combination. What’s next for India? India is running a lost race here, having surrendered the home Test series to New Zealand for the first time in 12 years. However, the only silver lining for the hosts would be to win this Test, saving themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time. With India trailing by 40 runs, they need a handsome partnership between Gill and Jadeja to take the lead and pile on it, putting pressure back on the Kiwis. For India to take advantage of this situation, they must take a lead of over 100 runs; given Sarfaraz, Ashwin and Sundar are yet to bat, they are in for a long day with the bat in hand. Meanwhile, considering the pitch on offer will assist the spinners, the Indian spin trio of Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar would be licking their lips over the same in the second innings.

IND vs NZ 2024, 3rd Test, Day 2: India dominate first session but lose Rishabh Pant

Ace Indian keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) radar ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. The latest reports suggest that Delhi Capitals have decided against retaining their captain and marquee player, and with Pant entering the mega auction, CSK are among several teams eyeing&nbsp;his services.

The five-time IPL champions, Chennai Super Kings, are said to retain their skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, seamer Matheesha Pathirana and former captain and star player MS Dhoni (under the uncapped player category). Though CSK is undecided over retaining all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube is another name they will take a final call on with the deadline fast approaching.

However, with MS Dhoni hinting at enjoying his last few years in the IPL, the franchise is looking forward to the future; who better than to replace Dhoni with India Test great Pant at CSK?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-delhi-capitals-rishabh-pant-part-ways-as-star-batter-to-enter-auction-4-players-retained-772240">IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained</a>

Meanwhile, the Chennai Super Kings understand the money and auction dynamics regarding Pant, with reports adding that they are keeping a surplus of INR 20 crore for him from their auction purse.&nbsp;

With Pant bringing along the captaincy perk, several teams will approach him during the mega auction, scheduled for late next month. To cut down on competition, CSK might put Jadeja’s name in the auction to make more room for Pant should the management decide to bring him on board from next season onwards.

Even if CSK retains four or five players, they’d have RTM options to be used for Jadeja or any other player.

<h2>If not Pant, then who else?</h2>

CSK will look at all options - although given how much they value their players, considering retaining their core group over the years, CSK will do everything possible to have Jadeja on board.&nbsp;

With Pant, CSK has to strategise well and plan accordingly, keeping an option open for someone else if the bid for Pant goes beyond their purse for him.&nbsp;

Another name the CSK could chase is India keeper-batter KL Rahul, who also said to part ways with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the auction.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) radar ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. The latest reports suggest that Delhi Capitals have decided against retaining their captain and marquee player, and with Pant entering the mega auction, CSK are among several teams eyeing his services.

Ace Indian keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) radar ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. The latest reports suggest that Delhi Capitals have decided against retaining their captain and marquee player, and with Pant entering the mega auction, CSK are among several teams eyeing his services. The five-time IPL champions, Chennai Super Kings, are said to retain their skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, seamer Matheesha Pathirana and former captain and star player MS Dhoni (under the uncapped player category). Though CSK is undecided over retaining all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube is another name they will take a final call on with the deadline fast approaching. However, with MS Dhoni hinting at enjoying his last few years in the IPL, the franchise is looking forward to the future; who better than to replace Dhoni with India Test great Pant at CSK? ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained Meanwhile, the Chennai Super Kings understand the money and auction dynamics regarding Pant, with reports adding that they are keeping a surplus of INR 20 crore for him from their auction purse. With Pant bringing along the captaincy perk, several teams will approach him during the mega auction, scheduled for late next month. To cut down on competition, CSK might put Jadeja’s name in the auction to make more room for Pant should the management decide to bring him on board from next season onwards. Even if CSK retains four or five players, they’d have RTM options to be used for Jadeja or any other player. If not Pant, then who else? CSK will look at all options - although given how much they value their players, considering retaining their core group over the years, CSK will do everything possible to have Jadeja on board. With Pant, CSK has to strategise well and plan accordingly, keeping an option open for someone else if the bid for Pant goes beyond their purse for him. Another name the CSK could chase is India keeper-batter KL Rahul, who also said to part ways with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the auction. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Rishabh Pant on CSK’s radar after DC exit – Reports

Former Australia skipper Tim Paine has said it was Cheteshwar Pujara and not Rishabh Pant who won India the Test series last time in Australia. The comments come during the build up of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series which starts November 22 in Perth, Australia.&nbsp;

"What I do remember, a lot of people talk about Rishabh Pant in the last series in Australia, but the guy who won them the series was Pujara. He wore us down, he wore our fast bowlers down. He kept getting hit on the body, but he kept getting up. There is still place for that in Test cricket," said Paine while talking on the Grade Cricketer's Podcast.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/always-expect-us-to-do-well-says-aussie-skipper-pat-cummins-ahead-of-home-bgt-vs-india-772044">'Always expect us to do well,' says Aussie skipper Pat Cummins ahead of home BGT vs India</a>

Pant was one of India's best performers on the series and had scored the series winning 89 not out in Gabba, Brisbane in addition to his match-saving 97 in Sydney.

Pujara, on the other hand, played a lot of balls and took a lot of body blows to help a second-string India batting unit which had no Virat Kohli.

It is to be noted that Australia have lost the last four Test series against India, including two at home and two away. India last lost a Test series against Australia in 2014.

India's tour of Australia begins on November 22&nbsp;in Perth before the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from December&nbsp;14-18&nbsp; before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3-7.&nbsp;

India's squad for Australia tour: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar&nbsp;

Former Australia skipper Tim Paine has said it was Cheteshwar Pujara and not Rishabh Pant who won India the Test series last time in Australia. The comments come during the build up of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series which starts November 22 in Perth, Australia.

Former Australia skipper Tim Paine has said it was Cheteshwar Pujara and not Rishabh Pant who won India the Test series last time in Australia. The comments come during the build up of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series which starts November 22 in Perth, Australia. "What I do remember, a lot of people talk about Rishabh Pant in the last series in Australia, but the guy who won them the series was Pujara. He wore us down, he wore our fast bowlers down. He kept getting hit on the body, but he kept getting up. There is still place for that in Test cricket," said Paine while talking on the Grade Cricketer's Podcast. Also Read: 'Always expect us to do well,' says Aussie skipper Pat Cummins ahead of home BGT vs India Pant was one of India's best performers on the series and had scored the series winning 89 not out in Gabba, Brisbane in addition to his match-saving 97 in Sydney. Pujara, on the other hand, played a lot of balls and took a lot of body blows to help a second-string India batting unit which had no Virat Kohli. It is to be noted that Australia have lost the last four Test series against India, including two at home and two away. India last lost a Test series against Australia in 2014. India's tour of Australia begins on November 22 in Perth before the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from December 14-18 before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3-7. India's squad for Australia tour: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune. The hosts began proceedings on day two on 16 for one, with their scorecard at lunch reading 107 for seven. All-rounder Glenn Phillips bagged the remaining two wickets in the session by removing two lefties - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant.

India began cautiously, with the returning Shubman Gill and Jaiswal doing their best to stay on the crease. Although both struck a couple of boundaries, including Gill’s coming-down-the-track six off Tim Southee, Santner broke the camel’s back with an incredible spell.

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Shubman Gill steps out, and boom! 
 
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Included for the injured Matt Henry for this Test, Santner first made inroads with a handy contribution from the bat late on day one, hitting a gritty 33, he dented India’s morale with four wickets inside the first session the next day. The left-arm orthodox first removed Gill, trapped in the front on 30, then accounted for Kohli, who got deceived in a flight, getting bowled while playing an unlike-Kohli shot on just one.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-522-to-53-all-out-western-australia-lose-8-wickets-for-1-run-in-bizarre-collapse-in-one-day-cup-770563">From 52/2 to 53 all out! Western Australia lose 8 wickets for 1 run in BIZARRE collapse in One-Day Cup</a>

With two left-handers on the crease, Captain Latham introduced right-arm spinner Phillips. In no time, he got rid of Jaiswal, caught in the first slip on 30, later dismissing dangerous Pant, bowled on 18.&nbsp;

The previous game's hero, Sarfaraz Khan, couldn’t repeat his heroics here, as he got out similarly as in the first game, with Santner picking his wicket on 11. The left-arm spinner dismissed Ravichandran Ashwin next on four, trapped in the front, to reduce India to 103 for seven.

Two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and India’s first-inning hero Washington Sundar, are at the crease, with the hosts trailing by 152 runs.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, New Zealand won the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, taking a one-nil lead in this three-match series.&nbsp;

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune.

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner picked four wickets, including star batter Virat Kohli, to rock India in the first session of day two of the second Test in Pune. The hosts began proceedings on day two on 16 for one, with their scorecard at lunch reading 107 for seven. All-rounder Glenn Phillips bagged the remaining two wickets in the session by removing two lefties - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant. India began cautiously, with the returning Shubman Gill and Jaiswal doing their best to stay on the crease. Although both struck a couple of boundaries, including Gill’s coming-down-the-track six off Tim Southee, Santner broke the camel’s back with an incredible spell. Shubman Gill steps out, and boom! Catch LIVE action from the 2nd #INDvNZ Test on #JioCinema, #Sports18 and #ColorsCineplex 👈#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/SIhkHgqlYf — JioCinema (@JioCinema) October 25, 2024 × Included for the injured Matt Henry for this Test, Santner first made inroads with a handy contribution from the bat late on day one, hitting a gritty 33, he dented India’s morale with four wickets inside the first session the next day. The left-arm orthodox first removed Gill, trapped in the front on 30, then accounted for Kohli, who got deceived in a flight, getting bowled while playing an unlike-Kohli shot on just one. ALSO READ: From 52/2 to 53 all out! Western Australia lose 8 wickets for 1 run in BIZARRE collapse in One-Day Cup With two left-handers on the crease, Captain Latham introduced right-arm spinner Phillips. In no time, he got rid of Jaiswal, caught in the first slip on 30, later dismissing dangerous Pant, bowled on 18. The previous game's hero, Sarfaraz Khan, couldn’t repeat his heroics here, as he got out similarly as in the first game, with Santner picking his wicket on 11. The left-arm spinner dismissed Ravichandran Ashwin next on four, trapped in the front, to reduce India to 103 for seven. Two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and India’s first-inning hero Washington Sundar, are at the crease, with the hosts trailing by 152 runs. Meanwhile, New Zealand won the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, taking a one-nil lead in this three-match series.

IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test, Day 2: New Zealand rock India with six wickets inside first session

India are set to host New Zealand in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, starting on Thursday (Oct 24). With an eight-wicket defeat in the series opener, in Bengaluru, Rohit Sharma-led hosts are desperate to level the series. Ahead of the penultimate contest, all eyes are on India's playing XI as Shubman Gill is fit whereas it will be interesting to see if Akash Deep replaces Mohammed Siraj. Moreover, Rishabh Pant also complained of knee issues in the Bengaluru Test. However, Gambhir has confirmed that he is 'absolutely fit' to play and will keep wickets in Pune.

During the pre-match press conference, Gambhir said, "He's absolutely fine, he'll keep wickets tomorrow." Thus, this officially ends all speculations regarding Pant's injury concerns, especially after his knee was hit in the same area, in Bengaluru, where he had previously undergone surgery post the horrific car crash.&nbsp;The home team, thus, took&nbsp;a cautious approach in the series opener and asked Dhruv Jurel to keep wickets during India's unsuccessful 107-run defence in the final innings.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-ill-tell-virat-rohit-obliges-to-fans-special-request-while-signing-autograph-watch-769919">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: 'I'll tell Virat,' Rohit obliges to fan's SPECIAL request while signing autograph - Watch</a>

It will be interesting to see India's team combination for the Pune Test. With Siraj not looking in his elements in the series opener, many expect Akash Deep to replace him. Gill, who missed the series opener due to a stiff neck, is fit to play and it remains to be seen if he will replace Sarfaraz Khan, who scored a majestic 150 in India's second essay in Bengaluru. Sarfaraz wasn't supposed to play the three-match Test series opener but got a chance at the expense of Gill.&nbsp;

KL Rahul, who bats at No. 6, is also under the radar. After a failed run in the Bengaluru Test, the right-hander can also be ousted, however, the team management is likely to back&nbsp;him. Thus, Gill is expected to replace Sarfaraz.

Talking about the first Test, India opted to bat first but got bundled out for 46 due to Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, NZ rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to post 402 and&nbsp;take a whopping 356-run lead. The home team fought back, owing to Sarfaraz's 150 and Pant's 99, to post 462 but only managed to set a 107-run target. Eventually, the visitors chased it down with eight wickets in hand.

Meanwhile, Tom Latham-led Black Caps will continue to miss star batter Kane Williamson, who is yet not fully fit post a groin strain.

India are set to host New Zealand in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, starting on Thursday (Oct 24). With an eight-wicket defeat in the series opener, in Bengaluru, Rohit Sharma-led hosts are desperate to level the series.

India are set to host New Zealand in the second and penultimate Test, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, starting on Thursday (Oct 24). With an eight-wicket defeat in the series opener, in Bengaluru, Rohit Sharma-led hosts are desperate to level the series. Ahead of the penultimate contest, all eyes are on India's playing XI as Shubman Gill is fit whereas it will be interesting to see if Akash Deep replaces Mohammed Siraj. Moreover, Rishabh Pant also complained of knee issues in the Bengaluru Test. However, Gambhir has confirmed that he is 'absolutely fit' to play and will keep wickets in Pune. During the pre-match press conference, Gambhir said, "He's absolutely fine, he'll keep wickets tomorrow." Thus, this officially ends all speculations regarding Pant's injury concerns, especially after his knee was hit in the same area, in Bengaluru, where he had previously undergone surgery post the horrific car crash. The home team, thus, took a cautious approach in the series opener and asked Dhruv Jurel to keep wickets during India's unsuccessful 107-run defence in the final innings. Also read: Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: 'I'll tell Virat,' Rohit obliges to fan's SPECIAL request while signing autograph - Watch It will be interesting to see India's team combination for the Pune Test. With Siraj not looking in his elements in the series opener, many expect Akash Deep to replace him. Gill, who missed the series opener due to a stiff neck, is fit to play and it remains to be seen if he will replace Sarfaraz Khan, who scored a majestic 150 in India's second essay in Bengaluru. Sarfaraz wasn't supposed to play the three-match Test series opener but got a chance at the expense of Gill. KL Rahul, who bats at No. 6, is also under the radar. After a failed run in the Bengaluru Test, the right-hander can also be ousted, however, the team management is likely to back him. Thus, Gill is expected to replace Sarfaraz. Talking about the first Test, India opted to bat first but got bundled out for 46 due to Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, NZ rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to post 402 and take a whopping 356-run lead. The home team fought back, owing to Sarfaraz's 150 and Pant's 99, to post 462 but only managed to set a 107-run target. Eventually, the visitors chased it down with eight wickets in hand. Meanwhile, Tom Latham-led Black Caps will continue to miss star batter Kane Williamson, who is yet not fully fit post a groin strain.

Ind vs NZ: Gautam Gambhir confirms Rishabh Pant is 'absolutely fit' for 2nd Test in Pune

Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week. Pant&nbsp;scored 99 in the second innings, which has propelled him to the sixth spot. The rise also means former skipper Virat Kohli dropped to eighth spot. In the bowler’s ranking, Jasprit Bumrah continues to lead the way by keeping his spot intact.

<h2>Pant on the rise</h2>

Pant was India’s highest scorer in India’s otherwise horror first innings with 20 runs as Rohit and Co got bowled out for 46. However, he made amends in the second innings with a 99-run knock before getting out. He was unfortunate to miss out on the ton against the Kiwis. Pant also scored a ton against Bangladesh last month in the Chennai Test since having returned to the format after 21 months out due to injury.

Pant was also injured during the Bengaluru Test but has been confirmed fit by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and is available for the second Test in Pune. It will come as a big boost for the Indian team as they look to return to parity in the three-match Test series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-penultimate-contest-in-pune-769950">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand penultimate contest in Pune</a>

<h2>Bumrah continues to dominate with the ball</h2>

In the bowlers ranking, Jasprit Bumrah leads the way and sits at the top after a decent show with the ball against the Kiwis. Three Indian bowlers are in the top 10 of the rankings as Ravichandran Ashwin (second) and Ravindra Jadeja (sixth) make the cut. Ashwin and Bumrah will have a tight race for the top spot next week with India hosting New Zealand in the second Test in Pune.

With India trailing 0-1, the onus will be on the hosts to win the match and level the series.

Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week.

Star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Virat Kohli in the latest ICC Test batters ranking after a superb show in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last week. Pant scored 99 in the second innings, which has propelled him to the sixth spot. The rise also means former skipper Virat Kohli dropped to eighth spot. In the bowler’s ranking, Jasprit Bumrah continues to lead the way by keeping his spot intact. Pant on the rise Pant was India’s highest scorer in India’s otherwise horror first innings with 20 runs as Rohit and Co got bowled out for 46. However, he made amends in the second innings with a 99-run knock before getting out. He was unfortunate to miss out on the ton against the Kiwis. Pant also scored a ton against Bangladesh last month in the Chennai Test since having returned to the format after 21 months out due to injury. Pant was also injured during the Bengaluru Test but has been confirmed fit by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and is available for the second Test in Pune. It will come as a big boost for the Indian team as they look to return to parity in the three-match Test series. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test Live Streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand penultimate contest in Pune Bumrah continues to dominate with the ball In the bowlers ranking, Jasprit Bumrah leads the way and sits at the top after a decent show with the ball against the Kiwis. Three Indian bowlers are in the top 10 of the rankings as Ravichandran Ashwin (second) and Ravindra Jadeja (sixth) make the cut. Ashwin and Bumrah will have a tight race for the top spot next week with India hosting New Zealand in the second Test in Pune. With India trailing 0-1, the onus will be on the hosts to win the match and level the series.

ICC Rankings: Rishabh Pant leapfrogs Virat Kohli in Test batters; Bumrah continues dominance with ball

Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field.&nbsp;

Though Jurel impressed with some exceptional glove work throughout, Pant made inroads with the bat in hand in the second innings. His 99-run knock, part of a 177-run stand with centurion Sarfaraz Khan, blew the roof off at the M Chinnaswamy.

At first, it looked worse, suggesting Pant could be out of the first Test if not the series, but he came to bat&nbsp;fighting knee pain. The star batter took his time before unleashing an attack after lunch. Pant took the attack to the opposition in the second session, accelerating India’s innings, with their scorecard at one stage reading 408 for three.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-2nd-test-india-to-prepare-spin-web-in-pune-after-bengaluru-setback-769525">IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback</a>

Given India’s position after their first-inning debacle, where they got all out on their lowest team total at home (46) in Tests, surpassing the 356-run deficit and piling up runs was a massive effort. Pant’s contribution played a vital role, which saw him smashing nine fours and five maximums, including a monstrous 107m off Tim Southee.

Per a report in The Indian Express, Pant is fit to play the second Test in Pune. The hosts, however, are expected to make a few changes to the playing XI for the next game. Shubman Gill&nbsp;will be roped in if he is fit, and Akash Deep is likely to replace Mohammed Siraj.

With Washington Sundar’s inclusion and the latest reports suggesting that the board has asked for rank-turner for the second match, Rohit could be tempted to play another spin bowler ahead of a seamer.

<h2>‘Careful with Pant’</h2>

After the first match in Bengaluru, Rohit addressed Pant’s injury status, saying considering what he has undergone in the past year (out of action following a horrific car crash in December 2022), the management is careful with his injury and workload.

“He’s (Rishabh Pant) had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through,” Rohit had said after the first Test. “He’s had a lot of minor surgeries, one big surgery on his knee, and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one and a half years. So, it’s just about being extra careful, not careful with him. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands,” the India captain said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field.

Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field. Though Jurel impressed with some exceptional glove work throughout, Pant made inroads with the bat in hand in the second innings. His 99-run knock, part of a 177-run stand with centurion Sarfaraz Khan, blew the roof off at the M Chinnaswamy. At first, it looked worse, suggesting Pant could be out of the first Test if not the series, but he came to bat fighting knee pain. The star batter took his time before unleashing an attack after lunch. Pant took the attack to the opposition in the second session, accelerating India’s innings, with their scorecard at one stage reading 408 for three. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback Given India’s position after their first-inning debacle, where they got all out on their lowest team total at home (46) in Tests, surpassing the 356-run deficit and piling up runs was a massive effort. Pant’s contribution played a vital role, which saw him smashing nine fours and five maximums, including a monstrous 107m off Tim Southee. Per a report in The Indian Express, Pant is fit to play the second Test in Pune. The hosts, however, are expected to make a few changes to the playing XI for the next game. Shubman Gill will be roped in if he is fit, and Akash Deep is likely to replace Mohammed Siraj. With Washington Sundar’s inclusion and the latest reports suggesting that the board has asked for rank-turner for the second match, Rohit could be tempted to play another spin bowler ahead of a seamer. ‘Careful with Pant’ After the first match in Bengaluru, Rohit addressed Pant’s injury status, saying considering what he has undergone in the past year (out of action following a horrific car crash in December 2022), the management is careful with his injury and workload. “He’s (Rishabh Pant) had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through,” Rohit had said after the first Test. “He’s had a lot of minor surgeries, one big surgery on his knee, and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one and a half years. So, it’s just about being extra careful, not careful with him. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands,” the India captain said. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 2024: Boost for India as Rishabh Pant declared fit to play second Test in Pune

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