Rishabh Pant’s highly anticipated return to red-ball cricket after a long layoff in 2022 didn’t go as planned. Playing for India B in the first round of the Duleep Trophy 2024 tournament, the wicket-keeper batter was dismissed for a mere seven runs against India A at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Pant started his innings with a flourish, striking a boundary off the very first ball he faced. However, his joy was short-lived as he was unable to capitalize on the early momentum and was sent back to the pavilion soon after.
This early dismissal raises concerns about Pant’s form and his ability to adapt to the longer format of the game after a significant period of absence. It remains to be seen how he will perform in the remaining matches of the tournament and whether he will be able to regain his usual confidence and consistency.
