India’s wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant mounted a brave fightback on Sunday, scoring a quickfire 64 off 57 balls. His aggressive innings, featuring nine fours and a six, was India’s only significant resistance as they fell 25 runs short in the final Test of the series. With India chasing 147 and reeling at 29-5, Pant’s partnership with Ravindra Jadeja briefly rekindled hope among fans.

Pant combined powerful stroke play with resilience, steering India past 100 and keeping his side’s slim chances alive. Despite losing Jadeja early, Pant continued to challenge New Zealand’s bowlers with his unconventional shots.

Controversial Dismissal Ends Pant’s Innings

Pant’s innings came to an abrupt end in the 22nd over due to a contentious decision. Initially ruled not out by the on-field umpire, Pant was eventually dismissed for a catch behind after New Zealand captain Tom Latham’s successful review. Ajaz Patel, who led the New Zealand attack with 6-57, appeared to have drawn an edge from Pant, but the sound was faint, leading to debate. Replays suggested a possible deflection from Pant’s bat to pad, which was caught by wicketkeeper Tom Blundell.

The third umpire's ruling left fans and analysts divided. Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers highlighted a “grey area” in the Decision Review System (DRS), noting the potential for confusion when sounds from bat and pad coincide. “How sure are we he hit it? I’ve always worried about this,” wrote de Villiers on X, arguing for the inclusion of Hotspot technology in DRS.

Pant’s Efforts Fall Short as New Zealand Triumphs

Despite Pant’s courageous innings, India’s lower order couldn’t withstand the pressure, losing the final three wickets in just four balls. His 42-run stand with Jadeja was a bright spot for the hosts, but Patel’s precise bowling and Phillips’ supportive 3-42 left India all out for 121 in 29.1 overs.

Series Recap

New Zealand’s historic 3-0 sweep marked the first time a visiting team achieved a clean sweep in a minimum three-Test series on Indian soil. New Zealand scored 235 in its first innings, with India taking a 28-run lead by scoring 263. However, Pant’s gritty effort was the lone highlight in an otherwise tough series for India.