Sun Nov 03 05:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Pant’s Explosive Knock Puts India Back in Control Against New Zealand

**Mumbai, India:** Rishabh Pant’s blistering counter-attacking innings on Day 2 of the third Test against New Zealand has put India back in the driver’s seat. The wicketkeeper-batter, coming in at a precarious moment with India struggling at 85/4, unleashed a barrage of shots, scoring a rapid 60 off just 59 deliveries.

Pant’s knock drew comparisons with some of the game’s greatest hitters, including Viv Richards and Virender Sehwag. Former India coach Ravi Shastri, known for his blunt commentary, described Pant as carrying a similar reputation to these legends – a reputation of fear among bowlers. “He carries a certain reputation – of destroying bowling attacks,” Shastri said during the match, highlighting Pant’s ability to intimidate even the most seasoned bowlers.

Coming into bat just before stumps on Day 1, Pant played just one ball, taking a single to finish the day’s play. But the morning session on Day 2 saw him unleash his full potential, becoming the fastest Indian to reach a half-century against New Zealand in Test history (36 deliveries).

Pant’s aggressive approach targeted New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who had been bowling with considerable threat during the final minutes of Day 1. The Indian batter’s onslaught forced the Kiwis to remove Patel from the attack, who had conceded at an alarming rate despite claiming two wickets.

While opening batsman Shubman Gill adopted a more cautious approach, Pant took charge of the run-scoring, effortlessly finding boundaries before eventually falling for 60. His explosive innings ensured that India turned the tide, regaining control of the match after a shaky start.

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