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The first Test match between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium witnessed a moment of sheer brilliance from Indian star batter Rishabh Pant on day four. With India struggling to recover from a dismal first-innings total, Pant unleashed a monstrous 107-meter six off Tim Southee, leaving the crowd and players alike in awe. This remarkable feat came during the 87th over of the match. Southee, utilizing the new ball to apply pressure, bowled a length delivery, but Pant had other plans.
Displaying his trademark fearless approach, Pant went down on one knee and executed a powerful slog-sweep, sending the ball soaring deep over square leg and out of the ground. Even New Zealand's Glenn Phillips, stationed on the boundary, could only watch in disbelief as the ball sailed over the ropes. Pant's audacity and power injected much-needed momentum into the Indian innings. However, the thrill was short-lived. Just two overs later, Pant fell heartbreakingly short of a century, bowled by William O'Rourke for 99.
Pant's dismissal occurred in the 89th over when he misjudged the bounce of the second new ball. O'Rourke's delivery kicked up unexpectedly from a good length, surprising Pant on the defensive. The ball took the inside edge and rattled the stumps, leaving Pant one run shy of a well-deserved hundred. As Pant walked back to the pavilion, disappointed but applauded by the fans, India found themselves effectively at 433/5. With KL Rahul also dismissed just before tea, India ended the session at 438/6, holding a slender 82-run lead. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 4. Pant's incredible six and his near-century display showcased his exceptional talent and provided a thrilling spectacle for the spectators.
Source: 107m SIX! Rishabh Pant smacks Tim Southee out of ground. Watch