October 19, 2024: Rishabh Pant’s dismissal at 99 in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand is a dramatic moment, making him the third Indian batter with the most dismissals in the 90s in Test cricket.
Pant’s innings of 99 off just 105 balls, at a strike rate of 94.29, included 9 boundaries and 5 sixes, showcasing his aggressive style of play. Unfortunately, he was dismissed by William O’Rourke in the 89th over, just one run short of what would have been a well-deserved century.
With this dismissal, Pant has now been out in the 90s on seven occasions in Tests. He stands behind only Sachin Tendulkar, who leads with 10 dismissals in the 90s, and Rahul Dravid, who has 9 such dismissals. Notably, Pant and MS Dhoni are the only Indian wicketkeeper-batters to have been dismissed in the 90s five or more times in Test cricket.
Pant’s partnership with Sarfaraz Khan was a key highlight of the innings, as Sarfaraz’s brilliant 150 powered India to a strong total of 438/6 by the end of session two on Day 4. Their 150-run stand put India in the driver’s seat, reducing the deficit and eventually taking a lead over New Zealand. Sarfaraz’s dismissal for 150 was followed by KL Rahul’s short stay at the crease, with Ravindra Jadeja coming in to support Pant after tea.
Pant’s aggressive knock and Sarfaraz’s exceptional performance were crucial in putting India in a commanding position, adding excitement to the Test match as India looked to secure a strong result against the Blackcaps.
