New Delhi [India], September 21 (ANI): Former cricketers Irfan Pathan and Michael Vaughan heaped praise on Rishabh Pant for his remarkable performance in the second inning of the opening Test against Bangladesh in Chennai.

Rishabh Pant’s journey back to Test cricket for India has been nothing short of a fairytale, especially after surviving a life-threatening accident in December 2022. His return has been a beacon of hope and resilience.

Pant’s first inning in the match saw him score a promising 39 runs, but it was his second inning that truly showcased his talent and determination. In Chennai, he dug deep and celebrated a memorable century, cementing his place as a key player for India.

Pant’s masterful 109-run knock was a blend of front-foot and backfoot play. He skillfully handled the spinners, relying heavily on his backfoot game to buy time and precisely pick the gaps. This strategic approach allowed him to dominate the bowling attack and lead India’s charge.

Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan expressed his admiration for Pant, emphasizing the positive impact of Pant’s presence on the cricket field. “What a comeback for @RishabhPant17.. The game is a better place when he is playing .. The resilience he has shown to get back playing is remarkable,” Vaughan wrote on X.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan also lauded Pant, calling him the nation’s Test cricket’s “ultimate match winner.” “Indian test cricket’s ultimate match winner @RishabhPant17 well done on you buddy,” Pathan wrote on X.

Pant’s impressive inning included 13 boundaries and four sensational sixes. However, his stellar performance was eventually halted by Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Pant’s attempt to cushion the ball back to the Bangladesh spinner brought an end to his sensational display. As he walked back to the pavilion, he received applause from the crowd and blew a kiss towards heaven, a gesture of gratitude.

Following Pant’s display, seasoned spinner Ravichandran Ashwin played a crucial role in pushing back Bangladesh during their massive 515-run chase. Ashwin’s three wickets put significant pressure on the Bangladeshi batsmen.

At the end of day three, Bangladesh found themselves at 158/4, with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (51*) and Shakib Al Hasan (5*) unbeaten at the crease. Earlier in the final session, Bangladesh had started strongly at 56/0 with Shadman Islam (21) and Zakir Hasan (32) holding their ground.

Pant’s extraordinary comeback and impactful performance have not only inspired his teammates but have also reignited excitement among cricket fans worldwide. His resilience and skill continue to make cricket a better place.