Sat Nov 02 09:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Pant’s Missed Run-Out Opportunity Costs India in Mumbai Test
**Mumbai, India:** India’s hopes of a series comeback suffered a setback on Day 1 of the third Test against New Zealand, with a costly missed run-out opportunity by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant proving detrimental to their chances.
The incident occurred in the 15th over of New Zealand’s innings, when a risky double by Daryl Mitchell and Will Young led to confusion. Mohammed Siraj’s throw from third man found Pant, who, instead of aiming for a quick dismissal of Mitchell, attempted to collect the ball first. This allowed Young, struggling to make his ground, to escape a run-out.
Former wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik criticized Pant’s lapse in judgment, highlighting the missed opportunity to run out Young. “He was busy collecting the ball while Will Young, at the other end, was struggling to make his ground,” said Karthik. “Had Pant turned around and thrown the ball at the non-striker’s, pretty sure Young would have struggled to make it at the other end.”
Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull echoed Karthik’s sentiments, labeling Pant’s reaction as a “casual effort.” “He is sort of aware, but by the time he was aware it was too late,” Doull pointed out.
Cameras captured Captain Rohit Sharma reprimanding Pant for failing to turn around and throw the ball at the non-striker’s end, a move that would have put pressure on Young to make his ground. Karthik also noted that Pant’s glove was still on his throwing hand, indicating his unpreparedness for the quick throw.
This missed run-out proved costly for India, as Young went on to score 71 runs in the innings, ultimately making a crucial contribution to New Zealand’s total of 235.
Despite Jadeja’s impressive five-wicket haul, India found themselves in a precarious position at 86/4 at the end of the day. Pant will now have a huge responsibility to lead his team’s fightback on Day 2, aiming to overcome the setback caused by his costly error.
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