India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant faced a controversial dismissal in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. Pant had been battling alone to keep India in the game.
In the 22nd over of India’s second innings Pant stepped forward to play Ajaz Patel’s delivery but missed the ball. It brushed his pad and popped up in the air. New Zealand’s wicketkeeper Tom Blundell caught it and the fielders appealed loudly.
The on-field umpire didn’t give Pant out initially. However with such an important wicket at stake, New Zealand captain Tom Latham used their last review.
When checked on UltraEdge there was some movement as the ball passed by, but it wasn’t clear if it was the bat hitting the ball or the pad.
After a close look, third umpire Paul Reiffel decided in favor of New Zealand and asked the on-field umpire to change his decision. Pant clearly upset, walked slowly back to the pavilion.
The Mumbai crowd was furious about the decision, chanting “cheater cheater” across the stadium as a disappointed Pant returned to the dressing room.
Pant had played a strong innings, scoring 64 off 57 balls with 9 fours and a six. He was the only Indian batter who seemed comfortable, putting pressure on New Zealand’s bowlers.
Unfortunately his innings ended sooner than hoped. After his dismissal New Zealand quickly took advantage, leading to India’s collapse.
Pant has been performing pivotal role for India in Test cricket which demonstrates his capacity to succeed in tough climate. He’ll be a handy asset for India in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy, especially given his strong performances in Australia.
Pant’s wicket was the seventh Indian wicket in the innings, which offered New Zealand bowlers a chance to bundle up the Indian team early. India’s tail could not last long and was all out for a paltry 121. New Zealand won the match by 25 runs, achieving a 3-0 series whitewash over India.
