AUS vs IND [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant’s spectacular six forces ground staff to use ladder to retrieve the ball on Day 1 of the Sydney Test

Jan 3, 2025

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AUS vs IND [WATCH]: Rishabh Pant’s spectacular six forces ground staff to use ladder to retrieve the ball on Day 1 of the Sydney Test

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Rishabh Pant’s towering six leaves ground staff in a fix

On the opening day of the fifth Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant stole the spotlight with a colossal six he hit to Australia’s debutant Beau Webster that caused an unusual delay in the game.

Rishabh Pant’s towering six leaves ground staff in a fix

Facing right-arm medium-fast bowler Webster in the 46th over, Pant danced down the pitch and launched a length delivery straight over the sight screen. The sheer power of the shot left the ball lodged in the sight screen, prompting an intervention by the ground staff. In a scene that brought smiles to the crowd, the staff had to fetch a ladder to retrieve the stuck ball. After some effort, one of them climbed up to dislodge it, marking a memorable moment in a high-stakes Test match.

Here is the video:

A six so big the ground staff needed a ladder to retrieve it!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/oLUSw196l3
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025

Also WATCH: Steve Smith reacts after 3rd umpire overturns his catch of Virat Kohli on Day 1 of SCG Test – AUS vs IND

Pant’s gritty knock ends after a brave fight

Pant’s innings of 40 off 98 balls was a mix of resilience and flair. Despite taking several body blows during his time at the crease, Pant played a vital role in steadying India’s innings. His stay came to an end in the 57th over when Scott Boland, bowling round the wicket, tempted him with a short ball wide of off-stump. Pant’s attempt to pull the delivery resulted in a mis-hit, with the ball landing safely in the hands of Pat Cummins at mid-wicket.

Series on the line for India

This Test holds immense significance for India, trailing 2-1 in the five-match series with one game drawn. A victory in Sydney would not only level the series but also allow India to retain the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia, on the other hand, is aiming to seal the series with a win, putting additional pressure on the visitors. The stakes are further heightened by the ICC World Test Championship standings. India, currently at 114 points with a PCT of 50%, needs a win to boost their PCT to 55.26% and stay in contention for the championship final.