ENG vs IND [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant’s hilarious stump mic rant at Josh Tongue in Headingley Test goes viral

England vs India Test series kicked off with a thrilling first Test at Leeds on June 20, 2025. Fans were treated to a gripping contest at Headingley, where both teams showcased their skills and resilience. Day 2, in particular, became memorable not only for the intense cricket but also for an unexpected moment of humor involving India’s vice-captain, Rishabh Pant. His stump mic rant while facing England’s young pacer Josh Tongue quickly went viral, adding a light-hearted twist to the high-stakes battle.

Rishabh Pant’s stump mic banter for Josh Tongue

Pant, known for his fearless batting and charismatic presence on the field, lit up Day 2 with more than just his runs. During his innings, Pant was caught on the stump mic uttering a hilarious complaint in Hindi: “Suja diya yaar maar maar ke, ek hi jagah maare ja raha hai,” which translates to, “He’s made me swollen, man, just by hitting the same spot again and again!” This candid moment revealed the frustration and pain Pant was feeling as Tongue repeatedly targeted a particular area with his deliveries.

The irony was palpable when Pant was dismissed on the very next ball, trapped lbw after shouldering arms to a sharply nipping delivery from Tongue. Despite the dismissal, Pant’s innings of 134 runs off 178 balls was a brilliant exhibition of controlled aggression, combining fearless strokeplay with tactical acumen. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar later praised Pant’s innovative “falling paddle sweep,” calling it “intentional and extremely clever.” Tendulkar highlighted how this shot allowed Pant to scoop the ball deftly over leg slip, especially effective against the spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Adding to the intrigue, Tendulkar also noted the strategic mid-over conversations in Hindi between Pant and fellow opener Shubman Gill. These exchanges appeared designed to disrupt the rhythm of the young spinner, showcasing India’s cerebral approach to the game. The partnership between Gill and Pant was pivotal, as their 209-run stand laid the foundation for India’s imposing total.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah vs Joe Root: Test stats after Day 2 at Headingley

India’s dominance falters against England’s resilience on Day 2 of Headingley Test

After a commanding batting display, India posted a formidable 471 runs, thanks largely to Yashasvi Jaiswal’s fluent century (101), Gill’s composed 147, and Pant’s flamboyant ton. This strong total put England under immense pressure, especially as the Indian bowlers struck back in the latter stages.

However, the match took a dramatic turn as India lost their last seven wickets for just 41 runs, allowing England to claw back some momentum. Jasprit Bumrah was instrumental in stemming the tide with a crucial three-wicket burst, including the prized wicket of Joe Root. Yet, England’s Ollie Pope stood firm, crafting a gritty unbeaten 100 to keep his team in the contest at 209 for 3 by the close of Day 2.

Also READ: Ben Duckett reveals England’s game plan to counter Jasprit Bumrah on Day 2 of Headingley Test