Cricket

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has praised wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his century in the first Test against Bangladesh, highlighting his defensive technique that resembles that of legendary former skipper MS Dhoni.Pant's century, along with Shubman Gill's, helped India set a massive 515-run target for Bangladesh. Manjrekar noted that Pant's innings showcased his willingness to play defensively, a trait often overlooked due to his aggressive batting style."It is a misleading package we see with Rishabh Pant," Manjrekar said. "Underneath that, you will see as many dot balls in his innings as Shubman Gill's, so he is willing to also play the defensive game that we have seen many times in the past."Manjrekar compared Pant's defensive technique to Dhoni's, who was known for his solid defense despite his reputation as a big-hitter. "He has got a pretty good defensive technique, bit like Dhoni, whose defensive technique was quite good," Manjrekar said.Manjrekar also noted Pant's ability to adapt his batting to the situation, similar to former opener Virender Sehwag. "He is that kind of player who has his own way of getting runs and has his own agenda - a bit like Virender Sehwag," Manjrekar said.In the match, India posted a total of 515 runs, with Ashwin and Jadeja contributing significant innings. Bangladesh was bowled out for 149 in their first innings, trailing by 227 runs. In their second innings, India declared at 287/4, setting Bangladesh a target of 515.At the end of day three, Bangladesh was 158/4, with Najmul Hossain Shanto leading the resistance.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable comeback in Test cricket has been a testament to his resilience and determination. After a life-threatening car accident in 2022, many doubted whether he would ever return to the highest level of the sport. However, Pant has defied all odds, returning to the Indian team with a vengeance.In just 34 Tests, Pant has matched MS Dhoni's feat of scoring six centuries, a remarkable achievement considering Dhoni played over 90 Tests. Pant's return to form has been particularly impressive given the challenges he faced after his accident.His comeback story began with a determined performance in the last IPL, where he played as a No. 3 batter on some of the most difficult pitches in the T20 World Cup. Despite concerns about his body's ability to withstand the rigors of five-day cricket, Pant has proven his fitness and skill in the ongoing Test against Bangladesh.His comfort against the Bangladesh bowlers has shown that he has overcome any mental hurdles that may have lingered after his accident. Shubman Gill, who shared a 167-run partnership with Pant, praised his teammate's resilience."I've seen him work so hard for it when he was coming back from the injury and I think he also must be feeling really good," Gill said.Pant's hard work and dedication have been evident in his training sessions. In New York, he faced short-pitched deliveries on a pitch with variable bounce, testing his pain threshold and preparing himself for the challenges of Test cricket.Former coach Rahul Dravid and current boss Gautam Gambhir have both praised Pant's abilities as a batter and wicketkeeper. Gambhir highlighted Pant's consistent performances in red-ball cricket and his ability to impact the game."He's got runs everywhere around the world, and not many wicket-keepers of that age have done it so consistently in red-ball cricket," Gambhir said.Pant's glovework has also been impressive in this Test, showcasing his all-around skills. Gambhir believes that Pant's batting often overshadows his keeping abilities, but he has been remarkable behind the stumps on Indian pitches.As Pant continues his comeback, the best is yet to come. His resilience and determination have inspired many, and he is poised to become one of the greatest wicketkeeper-batters in the history of the game.

Star India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has made a resounding statement in the ongoing 1st Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. In his first Test appearance since December 2022, Pant smashed his 6th Test century, scoring 109 runs in the second innings.Pant's performance has come amidst speculation about his future at Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, it has now been reported that the 26-year-old is set to be retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL mega auction.According to Cricbuzz, Pant met with DC co-owner Parth Jindal in Mumbai before the 1st Test to finalize his contract talks. The report suggests that Pant may receive an improved contract, having been retained by DC for Rs 16 crore in the 2022 mega auction."Pant's current IPL salary is INR 16 crore, but this figure is expected to go up based on the total player purse allowed to a franchise and the retention fee guidelines set by the BCCI," the report states.DC's co-owners, the GMR and JSW Groups, have reportedly finalized other retention decisions as well. If the BCCI allows more than five player retentions, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to be kept, along with overseas players Jake Fraser-McGurk and Tristan Stubbs. Additionally, 21-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Abhishek Porel may be retained as an uncapped player.Pant made his return to competitive cricket in the IPL earlier this year, leading DC to a sixth-placed finish. The IPL 2025 mega auction is expected to be a two-day affair held overseas in November or December this year.The BCCI is yet to announce the official retention rules, but it is anticipated that the announcement will be made soon.

The ongoing first Test between India and Bangladesh has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing their resilience and determination. On Day 1, Ravichandran Ashwin's heroic century set the tone for India, while Jasprit Bumrah's four-wicket haul on Day 2 put Bangladesh on the back foot.India's bowlers continued their dominance on Day 2, bundling out Bangladesh for a mere 149. Pacers Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep were relentless, not allowing the Bangladeshi batsmen to settle in. Shakib Al Hasan, with 33 runs, was the highest scorer for Bangladesh, but his dismissal provided a moment of hilarity.In the 31st over, Shakib attempted a reverse sweep against Ravindra Jadeja's delivery. However, the ball found the edge of his bat, and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant took a brilliant catch behind the stumps. The umpire's review confirmed the dismissal, sparking jubilation among the Indian team. Virat Kohli couldn't resist showing his excitement with a hilarious dance.On Day 3, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill played magnificent centuries to put India in a commanding position. Their 167-run partnership for the fourth wicket helped India declare their second innings at 287 for 4, setting Bangladesh a daunting target of 514.Bangladesh showed some resistance in their second innings, reaching 158 for four before bad light forced an early end to the day's play. Najmul Hossain Shanto (51) and Shakib Al-Hasan (5) were at the crease for the visitors, but they still need 357 runs to avoid defeat.R Ashwin has been a key performer for India, claiming three wickets in Bangladesh's second innings. The match is poised for an exciting finish, with India looking to secure a victory and Bangladesh aiming to pull off an improbable comeback.

Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's Lighthearted Sunglasses Swap Steals the Show in India vs. Bangladesh TestIn a moment of camaraderie and lightheartedness, Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant engaged in a memorable sunglasses exchange during the third day of the first Test between India and Bangladesh in Chennai.As the second innings of Bangladesh's batting unfolded, Kohli removed his sunglasses and handed them directly to Pant. Without hesitation, Pant removed his own pair and donned Kohli's. In a reciprocal gesture, Pant then offered his sunglasses to Kohli, who accepted and put them on.The exchange, captured by cameras, highlighted the strong bond between the two teammates. It also provided a brief moment of levity amidst the intense competition on the field.Meanwhile, the match itself saw Bangladesh facing an uphill battle at stumps on the third day. Chasing an imposing target of 515, they had lost four wickets for 158 runs. India had earlier declared their second innings at 287/4, thanks to centuries from Pant (109) and Shubman Gill (119).Bangladesh's hopes of a comeback were further dented by the impressive bowling of Ravichandran Ashwin, who claimed three wickets for 63 runs. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten on 51 at the close of play, providing a glimmer of hope for the visitors.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable return to Test cricket was marked by a record-equalling century, etching his name alongside former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the annals of Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen.After a 635-day hiatus from the longest format, Pant resumed his innings on Saturday with an unbeaten 12. With a couple off Shakib Al Hasan, he reached his sixth Test century, matching Dhoni's tally and becoming the joint record holder for most centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper-batsman.Pant's century came in 124 balls, adorned with 13 fours and 4 sixes. His partnership with Shubman Gill, who was batting on 88 when Pant departed, stretched India's lead to a commanding 461 runs.The left-handed Pant, who miraculously survived a horrific car accident in December 2022, displayed his trademark aggression and shot-making prowess. His century was a testament to his resilience and determination to return to the highest level of cricket.India's first innings total of 376 was bolstered by Ravichandran Ashwin's 113 and Ravindra Jadeja's 86. Bangladesh, in response, were dismissed for 149, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming four wickets.Pant's century and India's dominant performance have put them in a commanding position in the ongoing Test match. The visitors will be looking to press their advantage and secure a series victory.

Rishabh Pant, the charismatic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, brought a touch of levity to the opening Test against Bangladesh in Chennai on Saturday. Known for his infectious enthusiasm, Pant couldn't resist offering some tactical advice to the opposition.As play commenced on the third morning, Pant noticed some indecision among the Bangladesh fielders. With a mischievous grin, he couldn't help but chime in, "Arre idhar aayega ek...bhai, ek idhar, one fielder here, mid-wicket."To the amusement of the commentators and viewers, Shanto and the bowler promptly heeded Pant's suggestion, repositioning a fielder to mid-wicket. Pant's lighthearted intervention not only drew laughter but also highlighted his keen eye for the game.This Test match marks Pant's return to the international arena after a horrific car accident in December 2022. His recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, and his presence on the field has brought a renewed sense of energy to the Indian team.In the first innings, Pant contributed a valuable 39 runs. Resuming his knock in India's second innings, he looked determined to make a significant impact. Alongside Shubman Gill, who was batting on 33, Pant aimed to extend India's lead and put Bangladesh under further pressure.India, who posted a formidable 376 in their first innings, opted not to enforce the follow-on after dismissing Bangladesh for a paltry 149. The hosts resumed their second innings with a commanding lead of 308 runs.Pant's jovial nature and quick wit have made him a fan favorite. His ability to find humor in even the most intense situations is a testament to his resilience and positive outlook. As India continues its quest for victory in Chennai, Pant's infectious spirit is sure to inspire his teammates and entertain cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable return to Test cricket after a horrific car accident in December 2022 has garnered widespread admiration, including from Australian legend Adam Gilchrist. Pant's fighting spirit, fearless approach, and ability to entertain have earned him high praise from the former wicketkeeper-batsman.Gilchrist, known for his own aggressive batting style, believes Pant takes it to another level. "I reckon he attacks a bit more than I did," Gilchrist said. "He looks fearless. What I do like is that he occasionally puts a foot on the brake and absorbs a bit of pressure. So he's a class act."Pant's return to competitive cricket with the Indian Premier League earlier this year was a testament to his resilience. After undergoing multiple surgeries and spending over a year in rehab, he contributed to India's T20 World Cup triumph and played the Duleep Trophy to mark his red-ball comeback.Gilchrist, who played 96 Tests, 287 ODIs, and 13 T20Is, believes Pant's entertainment value is what sets him apart. "He is, what you say, bums on seats and people pay money well and truly. I would happily pay money to watch him play cricket," Gilchrist said. "He's got the humour. He knows how to go about a very serious business in a fun way."Pant's first Test innings upon return yielded a score of 39, demonstrating his ability to perform at the highest level despite the challenges he has faced. His fighting spirit and determination have inspired many, and his return to form is a welcome boost for Indian cricket.

India's wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant's wicket-keeping skills continue to be a subject of scrutiny, despite his exceptional batting abilities. During the first Test against Bangladesh, Pant's costly DRS blunder left pacer Mohammed Siraj visibly frustrated.On Day 2, Siraj appealed for an LBW against Bangladesh's Zakir Hasan, but the umpire turned down the appeal. Skipper Rohit Sharma consulted with Pant, who advised against taking a review, claiming the ball would miss the leg stump. However, replays revealed that the ball would have hit the leg stump, indicating that India could have gained an advantage by using the DRS.Siraj's disappointment was evident, and Pant apologized to the pacer. The incident highlighted Pant's ongoing struggles behind the stumps, despite his impressive batting performances.Meanwhile, India's bowlers dominated the Bangladesh batting lineup, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge. Bumrah claimed three wickets in his 6.5 overs, while Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah chipped in with two wickets each.Bangladesh's confidence was visibly shaken after allowing India to build a substantial total in their first innings. The visitors lost three wickets before lunch for a mere 26 runs, and their approach reflected a lack of cricketing smarts. They lost a further five wickets while adding 85 runs in the second passage, leaving them reeling at 112 for eight at tea.