Ben Stokes charged in with intent, aiming to make an early impact against Rishabh Pant. But what followed was a moment that showcased Pant’s fearless approach and natural flair. It wasn’t just a boundary — it was a bold statement.
On just his first ball faced, Pant decided to take the aggressive route. Reading the length perfectly, he danced down the track and launched the delivery straight back over Stokes’ head. The timing was sublime, the execution fearless — and just like that, he was off the mark in typical Pant fashion.
Stokes, known for his own positive mindset and competitive fire, couldn’t help but appreciate the audacity of the shot. As the ball raced to the boundary, he turned with a wide grin, breaking into laughter at the sheer cheek of the stroke.
What followed was a friendly exchange between two fierce competitors. As Stokes walked back to his mark, the two shared a brief, light-hearted chat. It was a classic moment of mutual respect in the heat of battle — a reminder of the spirit in which the game is often played.
That's some shot by one and only Rishabh Pant. #ENGvIND #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/y1DyL51a5L
— Wickets Hitting (@offpacedelivery) June 20, 2025
Pant’s intent was clear from the start: he wasn’t going to be bogged down. And in just one ball, he turned a routine delivery into a highlight — one that even the bowler had to smile at.