AUS vs. IND [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant hits a huge six to bring up his 50 off 29 balls against Mitchell Starc on Day 2 of the SCG Test
Rishabh PantIndia’s dynamic wicket-keeper batsman, delivered a breathtaking performance on the second day of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). His innings not only electrified the crowd but also etched his name in the record books once again. With a quick-fire 50 off just 29 balls, Pant showed his aggressive batting style, setting the stage for an exciting contest.
Rishabh Pant hits Mitchell Starc outside the park
The defining moment of Pant’s innings came during the 21st over when he faced the Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer delivered a long shot and Pant, with his signature flair, produced a stunning shot. He lifted the ball nonchalantly over deep mid-wicket, sending it high into the stands for a massive six. This incredible knock not only brought up his fifty but also highlighted his ability to dominate the bowlers with ease. It was a display of sheer power and timing that amazed fans and players alike.
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Here is the video:
FIFTY IN JUST 29 BALLS – SECOND FASTER BY AN INDIAN IN TESTS! 🙌@RishabhPant17 he played a game changing game at the SCG! 🔥#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 5th test, 2nd day | LIVE NOW! | #Toughest rivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/yGaTGAlDxv
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 4, 2025
Pant with the bat breaks records
Pant’s fifty marked the second-fastest half-century by an Indian in Test cricket, just one ball short of his record of 28 balls set against Sri Lanka 2022. Moreover, this achievement made him the first player in history to score two fifties in less than 30 balls in Test matches. His innings included six fours and four sixes, two of which fell in quick succession off Starc, further highlighting his aggressive approach at the crease.
His explosive batting not only boosted India’s total but also changed the momentum of the match. Coming into bat at a moment of uncertainty as India struggled at 59 for three, Pant’s intent was clear from his first ball – he hit a six Scott Bolandimmediately signaling his aggressive mindset. By the time he was dismissed for 61 runs off just 33 deliveries, he had taken India’s lead in the last 120 runs, setting a challenging target for Australia.
SCG test remains at balance on day 2
As the match progressed, Australia’s first innings concluded by scoring 181 runs after being bowled out inside 51 overs. Indian bowlers put up an impressive display, with Mohammed Siraj leading the charge taking three wickets for 51 runs. Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna he also contributed significantly in cracking the Australian batting line-up.
In their second innings, India faced a challenging start as they lost crucial wickets early. However, Pant’s snappy batting provided much-needed stability and aggression. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, including Virat Kohli and Shubman GillPant’s innings ensured that India remained competitive in the match. As Day 2 concluded, India found themselves at 141 for 6, looking to build on their lead and put the pressure back on Australia as they looked to retain Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
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