India's Pant enjoyed setting field against himself in Bangladesh win

India's Rishabh Pant, aged 26, relished the opportunity to set the field against his own team during the opening Test match against Bangladesh in Chennai, as stated by the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman.

Pant delivered a powerful performance, scoring a commanding century in his first Test appearance since a severe car accident in 2022, leading India to a decisive 280-run victory over Bangladesh at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium.

Known for his entertaining batting style and incessant dialogue from behind the stumps, Pant was observed advising Bangladesh's captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, on field placements while he was at the crease.

"One fielder here, midwicket," Pant was heard suggesting through the stump microphone, indicating the leg side. Shanto complied by positioning a fielder there on the third day of the match.

This, however, did not hinder Pant from achieving his sixth Test century, thereby matching his idol Mahendra Singh Dhoni's record for the most centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper.

"My understanding of the game is that cricket should evolve wherever it is played," Pant remarked in a video released by the Indian cricket board on Monday. "I was merely trying to assist the team by suggesting field placements, and it was a wonderful experience... I truly enjoyed it."

Pant is accustomed to setting fields as the captain of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League.

The 26-year-old ensures that there is rarely a dull moment on the field, with his continuous commentary and light-hearted exchanges with opponents making him a favorite among fans.

India aims for a 2-0 series victory as the teams prepare to meet in the second and final Test in Kanpur on Friday.