IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Rishabh Pant's Composed Reply Silences Harry Brook's Sledging Attempt

Rishabh Pant Shuts Down Harry Brook's Sledging Attempt During Edgbaston Test

During the second innings of the second Test at Edgbaston, Rishabh Pant faced a barrage of aggressive bowling from the English side. Amidst the pressure, Harry Brook attempted to unsettle the Indian wicket-keeper batsman with some verbal sparring during his rapid half-century.

Brook, in an attempt to disrupt Pant's concentration, audibly inquired, "What’s your fastest hundred?". He was clearly trying to provoke the flamboyant left-hander into playing a reckless shot.

Pant, however, remained composed and responded calmly, stating, "In Test cricket, maybe 80–90 minutes," referring to the relatively measured pace of his previous Test centuries.

Unsatisfied, Brook then brought up his own impressive record in the IPL, boasting, “The fastest hundred I’ve hit was in 55 balls—you could do that today,” aiming to entice Pant into taking unnecessary risks.

But Rishabh Pant displayed remarkable composure, refusing to be drawn into Brook's game. “It’s okay. I’m not too greedy for records. If it happens, it happens,” he replied with a smile, effectively silencing the sledging attempt.

After scoring 25 in the first innings, Pant played a crucial, counter-attacking innings of 65 off just 58 balls, including eight boundaries and three sixes.

Pant's Test Record in SENA Countries:

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

Pant's Performance in the Series:

Currently, Pant is the second-highest run-scorer in the series, having accumulated 342 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 85.00 and a strike rate of 81.81. His contributions include two centuries and a half-century, with a best score of 134.

During the innings, Pant shared a valuable 110-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Shubman Gill.

Gill's Contribution:

Shubman Gill continued his excellent form, following up his magnificent 269 in the first innings with another substantial knock of 161. His innings came off 162 balls and included 13 fours and eight sixes.

Jadeja's Unbeaten Innings:

Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 69 (off 118 balls, including five fours and one six), forming a brisk 175-run partnership for the fifth wicket with the Indian captain.

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