IND vs BAN: Rishabh Pant Slams Test Century After Gap of 814 Days

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Rishabh Pant made a stunning return to Test cricket by smashing his sixth Test century after a gap of 814 days, in the first Test match against Bangladesh at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Pant, who had been out of action for 634 days following a serious car accident in December 2022, showed no signs of rust as he put on a dominant batting display on Day 3 of the match.

Pant's hundred came off 124 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and four sixes, as he stuck to his aggressive style of play. His remarkable innings was vital in helping India extend their lead over Bangladesh past the 450-run mark.

At lunch, India had reached 205 for three, with Pant unbeaten on 82 and his partner, Shubman Gill, on 86. The two had stitched together a 138-run partnership, taking full advantage of some poor fielding by Bangladesh, who dropped multiple chances.

Interestingly, Pant was seen setting Bangladesh's field during the game. In a moment reminiscent of MS Dhoni's cheeky field suggestions during the 2019 ODI World Cup, Pant directed Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto to place a fielder on the leg side, which the skipper followed.

This moment drew attention, highlighting Pant's confidence and control on the field. Mehidy Hasan eventually dismissed Pant for 109 in the 56th over, but his innings was greeted with a standing ovation from the Chepauk crowd. His return to form has been nothing short of inspirational.

Pant's century was a significant moment not only for the match but for his personal journey. His previous century had come over two years ago, on July 1, 2022, against England. Following his horrific accident, Pant suffered serious injuries, including a ligament tear in his right knee, cuts on his forehead, and abrasions on his back.

His injuries were so severe that there was a chance his leg could have been amputated if the damage had been worse. Fortunately, after surgery and extensive rehabilitation, Pant made a miraculous recovery. His century against Bangladesh was his sixth in tests, equalling the record held by MS Dhoni.