IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Rishabh Pant's Calm Reply Deflates Harry Brook's Sledge Attempt

Rishabh Pant's Witty Retort Silences Harry Brook's Sledge in Second Test

During the second innings of the Edgbaston Test, Rishabh Pant faced more than just deliveries from the English bowlers; he also encountered some verbal sparring from Harry Brook. The young England player attempted to unsettle Pant during his quickfire half-century, but the Indian wicket-keeper batsman responded with composure and wit.

Brook, seemingly trying to disrupt Pant's rhythm, inquired about the Indian batsman's fastest Test century. "What's your fastest hundred?" he asked, perhaps hoping to goad Pant into playing a reckless shot.

Pant, unfazed, responded calmly, stating his fastest Test century may have been achieved in "80-90 minutes," alluding to the measured tempo of his previous tons.

Brook, not backing down, then brought up his own record in the IPL. He cheekily remarked that his fastest hundred came in just 55 balls, suggesting that Pant could attempt a similar feat.

However, Pant remained unperturbed by Brook's attempt to provoke him. With a smile, he responded that he wasn't "too greedy for records" and that if it happened, it happened. He effectively shut down the sledging with a display of quiet confidence.

Pant's Performance in the Match

After scoring 25 in the first innings, Pant played a crucial knock of 65 off just 58 balls, including eight fours and three sixes. This counter-attacking innings helped to shift the momentum back in India's favor.

Pant's Impressive Test Record

In 28 SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) Tests, Pant has accumulated 2,023 runs at an average of 41.28. He has six centuries and six fifties in 52 innings, with a highest score of 159*.

Pant's Performance in the Series

Throughout the series, Pant has been a standout performer, amassing 342 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 85.00 and a strike rate of 81.81. He has two centuries and a fifty to his name, with a best score of 134.

Key Partnerships

• Pant forged a valuable 110-run partnership with Gill for the fourth wicket.

• Gill, who scored a magnificent 269 in the first innings, continued his fine form with a brilliant 161 off 162 balls, including 13 fours and eight sixes.

• Jadeja contributed an unbeaten 69 (118 balls, five fours and one six) and added a further 175 runs in a rapid partnership for the fifth wicket with the Indian skipper.

India had lost KL Rahul (55) and Karun Nair (26) in the first session after resuming the fourth day's play at 64 for one.