• Rishabh Pant smashed Tim Southee for a huge six out of the stadium on Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test.

  • Pant departed for 99, falling short off his ton by just 1 run.

IND vs NZ [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant heaves Tim Southee for a 107 m humongous six on Day 4 of the first Test
Rishabh Pant heaves Tim Southee for a 107 m humongous six on Day 4 of the first Test (Image source: X)

Rishabh Pant is no stranger to thrilling moments on the cricket field, especially when it comes to his penchant for hitting sixes. Known for his aggressive batting style, Pant often defies the conventional wisdom that suggests caution during the ‘nervous nineties.’ This fearless approach, however, led to a poignant moment during the first Test match between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. As Pant approached what could have been his seventh Test century, he found himself just one run short, leaving fans and teammates alike in disbelief.

Rishabh Pant smacks Tim Southee out of the stadium

On Day 4 of the Test match, with Pant batting at 90 runs, Tim Southee delivered a ball in the 87th over of the Indian innings that would become a highlight of the day. In a stunning display of power, Pant executed a slog sweep that sent the ball soaring over square leg for an astonishing 107-meter six. The shot was so remarkable that it left New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, fielding nearby, utterly astonished – his jaw dropped in disbelief as he watched the ball clear the boundary. Even KL Rahul, who was batting alongside Pant, momentarily stood in shock before breaking into a smile at the spectacle he had just witnessed.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Rishabh Pant misses century by a whisker; fans call him a ‘Nervous 90s Victim’

Here’s the video:

M Chinnaswamy crowd’s roar turns to silence

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as the crowd erupted in cheers following Pant’s massive hit. However, their joy was short-lived. Just moments later, Pant’s innings came to an abrupt end when he was bowled by William O’Rourke for 99 runs. The sudden shift from exhilaration to heartbreak was palpable; fans who had been celebrating were left in stunned silence as Pant walked off the field, narrowly missing out on what many believed would have been a well-deserved century.

Pant’s aggressive style of play has always set him apart from other batters who might hesitate when nearing a century. His ability to take risks and play audacious shots has made him a fan favourite and a crucial player for India. While this particular innings ended in disappointment, it also showcased his remarkable talent and fearlessness on the field.

Pant’s near-century was both a thrilling display of cricketing prowess and a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the sport. As fans reflect on his spectacular six and subsequent dismissal, they are left eagerly anticipating his next innings – hoping it will culminate in that elusive hundred.

Also [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant launches a colossal six off Tim Southee on Day 4 of the first Test

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.