Following his controversial dismissal and India's subsequent loss in the third Test against New Zealand, Rishabh Pant has broken his silence. The 26-year-old expressed his disappointment but remains determined to help India bounce back from the series defeat. Pant acknowledged the importance of embracing both the highs and lows in life.
Rishabh Pant reacts to India's agonizing series sweep against New Zealand
Despite his valiant effort in the fourth innings, where he scored a crucial 64 runs, India fell short by 25 runs. After the series loss, Pant shared a message on his Instagram story, stating:
"Life is a series of seasons. When you're down, remember that growth happens in cycles. Embrace the lows, knowing they are preparing you for the highs."
Rishabh Pant controversial dismissal sparks debate
Pant's dismissal in the third Test against New Zealand was a controversial moment. The left-handed batter, who was in the midst of a match-winning innings, was dismissed against the run of play.
India found themselves in early trouble, losing half their side within eight overs. Pant stepped up to counterattack, scoring a quickfire half-century. However, in the 22nd over, he was dismissed by Ajaz Patel. The on-field umpire initially ruled the dismissal as not out, but after a review, it was determined that the ball had touched Pant's bat before reaching the wicket-keeper. This controversial decision proved to be a turning point in the match, as India eventually lost by 25 runs.
Ajaz Patel and New Zealand captain Tom Latham were convinced that Rishabh Pant had edged the ball, leading to a tense review. Replays showed a spike on the UltraEdge technology as the ball passed the bat, but the exact point of contact remained unclear due to the possibility of a simultaneous pad deflection.
The third umpire ultimately ruled in favor of the fielding side, leading to Pant's dismissal. Visibly disappointed, Pant argued with the on-field umpire before returning to the pavilion. His quickfire 64-run knock, which included nine fours and a six, had brought India within 41 runs of victory with three wickets remaining. Pant finished the three-match Test series as the top scorer for India, accumulating 261 runs at an impressive average of 43.50 and a strike rate of 89.38. His contributions included three half-centuries, with 99 being his highest score in the series.
