Indian cricket fans have got a big relief as the India A skipper Rishabh Pant returned to bat and smashed his familiar quick-fire half-century to help the hosts set a big fourth innings target for South Africa A in the second unofficial Test.

WATCH: Rishabh Pant retired hurt

During the first session of the third day of the second unofficial Test, India A captain Rishabh Pant got three blows, on his body and helmet, all against the fast bowler Tshepo Moreki. Ultimately, during the 34th over of India A's second innings, Pant decided to retire hurt at 17 off 22 balls.

Rishabh Pant retires hurt after taking three blows today. First on the helmet, second on the left-hand elbow, third on the abdomen. Tough day for the fighter. ❤️‍🩹 pic.twitter.com/kdTX8jdM8B

— Harsh 17  (@harsh03443) November 8, 2025

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Rishabh Pant returned and scored a 48-ball 50

However, Pant returned to bat in the 81st over after Harsh Dubey was dismissed for 84 runs. Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant set an 82-run partnership for the seventh wicket in just 53 balls. While Dhurv scored another unbeaten century (127 not out), just like his knock (132 not out) in the first innings to save India A's innings, Pant completed his half-century in 48 balls. Before losing his wicket, Pant scored 65 off 54 balls with the help of five fours and four sixes. India A declared their innings at 382/7, as the hosts set a 417-run target for South Africa A in the fourth innings.

Rishabh Pant is the only batter who treats Test bowlers like T20 —
Steps out, swings hard, and sends red-ball into the stands 🥶#RishabhPant
pic.twitter.com/VjSGvbfvPQ

— Orion (@arshdeep3444) November 8, 2025

The two-match Test series between India and South Africa will begin next week from November 14 at Kolkata, while the Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant is set to return to international cricket. Although his latest retired hurt had made his return to international cricket doubtful, he gave a big relief by returning to bat and maintaining his familiar batting performance.