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The highly-anticipated five-match Test series, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is finally underway down under with the first Test being played at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Jasprit Bumrah-led Team India won the toss and opted to bat first, but the Indian batters could not capitalise their chances in the middle as the hosts, Australia restricted the visitors to 150.
In return, a brilliant bowling spell from stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah led the charge as India bundled out the Aussies for 104, thus taking a 46-run lead at lunch on Day 2. With India struggling for the final wicket and Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood steading the Aussie innings, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was seen motivating the team at a crucial moment.
Rishabh Pant motivates Indian team on Day 2 of Perth Test
Pant, who is known for his continuous chirps from behind the wickets, was once again seen doing his job to the fullest as he motivated the team, who were looking for the final wicket. Coming close to the stumps, Rishabh Pant was caught saying, “Dheele pad ke kaam nahi chalega, Wasu (Washington Sundar). Thoda mahaul banana padega, thoda dum lagana padega bhai. (Things won’t improve if we loosen the grip now, we have to push hard.)”
Watch Rishabh Pant motivate his teammates on Day 2 of Perth Test:
With Pant motivating the players on the field, former India cricketer turned commentator, Ravi Shastri was seen echoing Pant’s words, adding that it was crucial to break the partnership between Starc and Hazlewood. The tailenders added 25 runs to their overnight score, whereas on Day 2, Australia added 37 runs before being bundled out at the score of 104.
