The 2024 Duleep Trophy has served as a crucial platform for many Indian cricket stars to return to red-ball cricket. With the home season around the corner, including a pivotal two-Test series against Bangladesh, the tournament has become a stage for players to showcase their skills. One of the standout performers was Rishabh Pant, who made a remarkable comeback to red-ball cricket.

Pant's impressive comeback performance

Rishabh Pant's return to the longer format of the game has been eagerly anticipated by fans and the cricketing fraternity. Playing for India B, Pant displayed his trademark flair behind the stumps and contributed significantly with the bat. His quickfire 61 in the second innings of the first round showcased his ability to turn the game in his team’s favor. Pant’s performance was a blend of aggression and precision, making it clear that he has regained his confidence in red-ball cricket.

Behind the stumps, Pant was back to his lively self, constantly chirping and engaging with his teammates. His energy was infectious, and his playful banter returned in full force. On Day 4, he had an amusing exchange with his Delhi Capitals and India teammate, Kuldeep Yadav, which provided some light-hearted entertainment during a tense match.

Banter between Pant and Kuldeep steals the show

As India A struggled to chase down a challenging target, Kuldeep Yadav found himself trying to steady the innings. Rishabh Pant, never one to miss an opportunity for some fun, began playfully teasing Kuldeep from behind the stumps. The duo, known for their strong off-field camaraderie, engaged in a hilarious back-and-forth, with Pant pretending to devise a “plan” to get Kuldeep out. Despite the playful ribbing, Kuldeep managed to keep his focus on the game, responding to Pant’s jibes with a smile and telling him to relax.

"Rishabh - isko single lene de , bhaut tagda plan banaya hai 

Kuldeep- thi h yaar , kyu pareshaan ho rha 

Rishabh - Toh phir out ho jaa na "

Rishabh - isko single lene de , bhaut tagda plan banaya hai

Kuldeep- thi h yaar , kyu pareshaan ho rha

Rishabh - Toh phir out ho jaa na 😂

Funniest banter you ever listen

Rishabh pant Tha character #RishabhPant pic.twitter.com/gZLYQGXsD3

— Harsh shekhawat (@wordofshekhawat) September 8, 2024

Rishabh - isko single lene de , bhaut tagda plan banaya hai Kuldeep- thi h yaar , kyu pareshaan ho rha Rishabh - Toh phir out ho jaa na  Funniest banter you ever listen Rishabh pant Tha character

Pant's antics didn’t stop there. Before the start of Day 4, he mischievously slipped into the India A team huddle as Shubman Gill, the captain, addressed his players. Later, Pant shared a laugh with Avesh Khan, his India A and Delhi Capitals teammate, further highlighting the bond between the players. Pant’s banter, combined with his on-field performance, added a lively dynamic to the match and made his return to red-ball cricket even more memorable.

See Also: Avesh Khan's response at Chinnaswamy steals the show in Duleep Trophy (cricketwinner.com)

Rishabh Pant’s return in the Duleep Trophy not only boosted India B but also reminded everyone of his charismatic presence both on and off the field. As India prepares for their upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, Pant’s form and energy will be key assets for the team.