Star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant surprised fans by stepping up to bowl during the opening match of the Delhi Premier League (DPL) on August 17, held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Captaining the team Purani Dilli 6 (PDL), Pant took on the responsibility of bowling the final over against South Delhi Superstarz (SDS), who needed just one run to secure victory. In a rare move, Pant delivered a low full toss that was driven towards long on, allowing SDS to clinch the match by seven wickets. Despite the loss, the sight of Pant bowling brought excitement to the spectators.

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— KL QUEEDA (@indianspirit070) August 17, 2024

Pant, primarily known for his explosive batting, has only bowled two overs in his professional first-class career, where he claimed one wicket. His brief stint as a wrist-spinner during this match added a unique element to the game, although it wasn’t enough to turn the tide in PDL’s favor. Pant contributed 35 runs off 32 balls in the first innings, hitting four boundaries and a six. However, his struggle against spin bowlers kept his strike rate under 100 until he managed a late surge.

Thrilling contest sees SDS secure victory in final over

After opting to bat first, Purani Dilli 6 set an impressive total of 197/3 in their 20 overs, powered by notable contributions from Arpit Rana (59 off 41), Vansh Bedi (47 off 19), and Lalit Yadav (34* off 21). On the bowling side, SDS captain Ayush Badoni led by example, taking 1/27 in his four overs.

In response, SDS chased down the target in 19.1 overs, thanks to stellar performances from Priyansh Arya (57 off 30) and Badoni (57 off 29). Sarthak Ray also played a crucial role, scoring 41 off 26 balls. Despite a valiant effort by Shivam Sharma, who took 2/38 in his four overs, PDL fell short, and SDS emerged victorious in the thrilling opener.

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Rishabh Pant’s unexpected bowling and the high-scoring encounter have set an exciting tone for the rest of the Delhi Premier League, leaving fans eager for more cricketing action.