Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made a triumphant return to Test cricket, smashing a remarkable century in the first Test match against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. His innings, which played a crucial role in India’s commanding 280-run victory, marked a personal and professional milestone after his long recovery from a near-fatal car accident in December 2022.
Pant’s Emotional Comeback
Pant’s century was his sixth in Test cricket and his first since returning to the international arena. Reflecting on his performance, Pant opened up about the emotional weight of his comeback.
“Definitely a lot special,” Pant shared in the post-match press conference. “Firstly, I love playing in Chennai, and secondly, after my injury, I was looking to make an impact in all three formats. Coming back to Test cricket, where I belong the most, being on the field gives me more pleasure than anything else.”
Pant emphasized the personal significance of his return to the format. “It was emotional. I was looking to score in every game. Being out there again, in a Test match, is where I feel most comfortable.”
Pant’s Partnership with Gill
Pant’s century came at a crucial time for India, as he helped steer the team from a precarious position of 30/3. His 109 off 128 balls, including 13 boundaries and four sixes, anchored India’s innings, alongside opener Shubman Gill, who also notched up a century. The duo’s partnership of 167 runs for the fourth wicket propelled India from 67/3 to a declaration at 287/4, setting Bangladesh an insurmountable target of 515 runs.
Pant highlighted the importance of this partnership with Gill, remarking, “When you are 30/3, you need to stitch a partnership, and that’s what I did with Gill. To do it with a guy who I have a great relationship with is special.”
India’s Dominant Victory
India’s bowlers, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, made light work of Bangladesh in their second innings, bundling them out for 234. Ashwin’s six-wicket haul capped off a brilliant all-round performance from the seasoned off-spinner, earning him the ‘Player of the Match’ award.
Pant and Gill’s centuries laid the foundation for India’s dominance, but it was Ashwin’s 6/59 that sealed the emphatic win with more than five sessions remaining in the match.
A Triumphant Return for Pant
Pant’s journey back to form following his accident has been nothing short of remarkable. His return to the Test side was eagerly awaited, and his performance in Chennai reinforced his place as one of India’s key players in the longest format of the game.
As Pant continues to regain his full form across formats, his emotional century will undoubtedly remain a highlight of his career.
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