Pant's Return Boosts India's Hopes in Bengaluru Test

Rishabh Pant's Return Boosts India's Hopes in Bengaluru Test

Rishabh Pant's return to training on Friday has provided a glimmer of hope for India in the ongoing first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru. Despite conceding a massive 356-run lead, the hosts are pinning their hopes on the star wicketkeeper-batter to salvage the match.

During the Tea break on Day 3, Pant emerged from the dressing room wearing a single pad and faced throw-downs under the watchful eye of assistant coach Abhishek Nayar. The Bengaluru crowd erupted in cheers as Pant, who missed the morning session due to a knee injury, began his preparations to bat.

Pant's absence from the field on Friday saw Dhruv Jurel take over the wicketkeeping duties. However, as per ICC regulations, a substitute wicketkeeper cannot bat for the team. This means that Pant will be eligible to bat without serving any penalty time.

India's hopes of saving the Test rest heavily on Pant's shoulders. The left-hander has a proven track record of rescuing the team from precarious situations. In the 2021 Sydney Test, Pant played a pivotal role in India's heroic draw, scoring a match-saving 97. He also played a crucial innings in India's historic victory in the Gabba Test.

With India facing a daunting task in the second innings, Pant's return to the crease could prove to be a game-changer. His aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly could help India reduce the deficit and put pressure on New Zealand.

The Indian team management will be closely monitoring Pant's progress in the coming hours. If he is deemed fit to bat, he is likely to come in at number six or seven in the batting order.

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