Rishabh Pant’s valiant half-century in the third and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was a beacon of hope for Team India, but his controversial dismissal left a bitter taste in the mouths of fans and pundits alike.
With India reeling at 29/5 in pursuit of 147 runs for victory, Pant entered the fray and played a counterattacking knock, reaching his fifty in just 48 balls. His aggressive approach gave India a glimmer of hope, but his innings was cut short in the 22nd over.
Ajaz Patel’s delivery initially appeared to miss Pant’s bat, but replays indicated a spike on UltraEdge as the ball passed. The on-field umpire initially ruled not out, but New Zealand captain Tom Latham and Patel convinced him to review the decision.
After a tense wait, the third umpire ruled in favor of the fielding team, much to the dismay of Pant and the Indian team. Pant briefly contested the decision with the on-field umpire before expressing his disappointment in the dressing room.
Despite the setback, Pant finished the three-match series as the top run-scorer with 261 runs at an average of 43.50 and a strike rate of 89.38. His impressive performance included three half-centuries, with a highest score of 99.
Pant’s dismissal sparked a heated debate on social media, with many fans and experts questioning the decision. Some argued that the sound on UltraEdge could have been caused by Pant’s bat hitting his pads, while others maintained that the ball had clearly nicked the bat.
The incident highlighted the challenges of using technology in cricket and the fine line between a legitimate dismissal and an unfortunate error. It also served as a reminder of the immense pressure that players face in high-stakes matches.
Despite the loss, Pant’s fighting spirit and determination left a lasting impression on fans. His performance in the series showcased his ability to counterattack on challenging pitches and his unwavering belief in his team.
