Image credit: Bharat Army Instagram
NEW DELHI: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who faced harsh criticism for his careless batting approach during the fourth Test in Melbourne, scored a resilient 40 off 98 balls in the fifth Test at the SCG.
Known for his fighting spirit and calmness under pressure, Pant’s knock, which included three fours and a six, stood out on a day when India’s top-order batters once again threw away their wickets with rash shots.
At the end of the day’s play, Pant was greeted by the Bharat Army with a song.
IND vs AUS: Rishabh Pant on dropped Rohit Sharma, criticism, Jasprit Bumrah
“We want to seek permission from you. The viral Bharat Army song made in your honor, we now want to change its lyrics,” the group of fans said.
“‘We’ve got Rishabh Pant. He’ll hit you for a six, he’ll babysit your kids’ will now go as ‘He’ll hit you for a six, he’ll inspire your kids,’” they added.
Pant appeared elated upon hearing the song and took pictures with the fan group.
Pant also thanked Bharat Army for their support to the Indian Cricket Team, saying: “Not only in India, overseas too. You guys are everywhere. So, thank you for supporting us. All the best”.
India were bowled out for 185, with Pant being the highest scorer. Scott Boland was the standout bowler with figures of 4-31, while Mitchell Starc took 3-49.
After recovering from 57 for 3 to 107 for 4 at tea, India lost their remaining six wickets for just 78 runs in the final session.
In response, Australia reached nine for one by the close of play.
India’s regular captain Rohit Sharma rested for the series finale, with Jasprit Bumrah stepping in to lead the team for the toss.
India trail the series 1-2.
