‘Aisa dalega toh…’: Captain Rishabh Pant thriving behind the stumps; supports Kuldeep Yadav with cheeky message – watch | Cricket News

Rishabh Pant was at the center of India’s efforts on the first day of the second Test in Guwahati, not only as wicketkeeper but as stand-in captain guiding the bowling attack through a demanding opening day. With Shubman Gill ruled out due to a neck spasm, Pant took charge and his constant communication behind the stumps became one of the main talking points as South Africa cruised through the day to reach a strong position. A series of micro-stump moments featuring Pant and Kuldeep Yadav went viral in the first two sessions, highlighting how he was actively trying to lift his bowlers and set the tone. His encouragement started early with “badhiya KD, good start hai yeh” (Very good KD. That’s a good start), followed shortly after by “Come on, come on bhai, body language yaar, upar rakhenge bhai” (Maintain the body language).

At another point, he exhorted the left-arm wrist bowler with “oye yaar KD, aise daalega toh phir wicket mil jaaeyga yaar” (If you keep bowling like this, you will get a wicket) and then reminded the fielders: “chalo chalo bhaiyo, kud mahol banana padega” (We will have to set the tone ourselves). The constant instructions, praise and reminders underlined India’s willingness to maintain intensity for long periods of play without many breakthroughs. South Africa, who elected to bat first after winning the toss, reached 156 for 2 at lunch, losing openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton just before and after tea. At the break, Stubbs was unbeaten on 32 from 82 balls, while Bavuma – who went on to reach a personal milestone in the second session – was on 36 from 86.Watch Rishabh Pant’s viral stump mic moments here Pant’s animated presence accompanied his pre-match approach. Speaking on the eve of his first Test as a full-time stand-in captain, he had acknowledged the control that comes with leadership. “That’s the challenge of being captain… you’re going to do what you think is right and trust that the person who has the ball will do the job for the team,” Pant said before the match. He also stressed the need to balance instinct and calm during long formats.

“I just want to give 100 percent in everything I do… my goal is to be a combination of what is conventional and original,” he added. As the first day unfolded with a strong South Africa, Pant’s energy and communication remained one of India’s most visible characteristics – a glimpse of how he intends to shape his leadership for the rest of the match.