The opening day of the first Test between England and India at Headingley, Leeds, had no shortage of drama, skill, and entertainment — but it was Rishabh Pant who delivered one of the most talked-about moments in the final session. Just moments into his innings, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter displayed the kind of fearless strokeplay that has come to define his Test career.
Facing England captain Ben Stokes, Pant decided to take the attack to the bowler right away. On just the fifth ball he faced, Pant stepped out of his crease and launched a length delivery straight back over Stokes’ head for a stunning boundary. The audacious shot not only got Pant off the mark but also brought a burst of laughter from the English skipper.
Rishabh Pant’s antics makes Ben Stokes burst into laughter
The incident occurred during the 53rd over of India’s innings. Stokes ran in with purpose, but Pant was already a step ahead — literally. Charging down the track, he met the ball with a clean swing of the bat, sending it racing past the bowler for four. It was a bold statement — the kind that only a player like Pant can make with such casual confidence.
Stokes, caught momentarily off guard, couldn’t help but break into a grin. The two shared a light-hearted exchange in the follow-through, reflecting the spirit of modern-day Test cricket where intensity and sportsmanship often go hand in hand.
Here’s the video:
𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙃𝘼𝘽𝙃 𝙋𝘼𝙉𝙏 𝙄𝙎 𝙄𝙉 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙈𝙄𝘿𝘿𝙇𝙀! 😎
That’s it, that’s the caption! 🤣😅
Watch now 👉 #ENGvIND | 1st Test | LIVE NOW on JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/S16apONf41
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 20, 2025
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A signature Pant moment early in the series
For Rishabh Pant, this boundary wasn’t just about runs — it was a declaration of intent. Making his return to the Indian Test side, Pant reminded everyone of his game-changing ability with just one shot. It was a reminder to England, and to the fans, that his presence at the crease means something thrilling is always around the corner.
The moment quickly went viral, with fans praising the camaraderie between two fierce competitors. As the series continues, moments like these are bound to add even more flavour to what is shaping up to be a riveting contest.
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