June 21, 2025: In a moment that captured both admiration and disbelief, KL Rahul was seen bowing with folded hands to Rishabh Pant after the India wicketkeeper smashed a daring six in the final over of Day 1 in the first Test against England at Headingley.
Pant, known for his audacious strokeplay, stunned everyone when he danced down the pitch and lofted Chris Woakes over deep square leg for six—with just minutes left in the day’s play. The bold stroke, played under the golden hues of a setting sun, defied the traditional end-of-day caution most batters adopt, and instantly lit up the stadium.
The crowd’s applause was matched by the reaction in the Indian dressing room. Cameras caught KL Rahul, sidelined due to injury but traveling with the team, standing and bowing with folded hands—a playful yet respectful gesture acknowledging Pant’s fearless approach.
“Only Pant Can Do That”
Pant’s six wasn’t reckless—it was calculated and clean, fitting seamlessly into a knock that balanced composure with intent. He walked off the field unbeaten on 65 off 91 balls, having helped India finish strongly at 359/3, after centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal (101) and captain Shubman Gill (127)* laid the foundation.
Social media erupted following the gesture, with fans praising the camaraderie and mutual respect between the players. “Only Rishabh Pant could attempt that shot at that moment,” one user posted, while another called KL Rahul’s reaction “the meme of the day.”
With Pant’s form looking ominous and India in a dominant position, Day 2 promises more fireworks. But for now, KL Rahul’s tribute sums it up best—Pant’s cricket is part genius, part madness—and always worth watching.