WATCH: Rishabh Pant pulls off an MS Dhoni-esque chop as India dominate Sri Lanka in 1st T20I

In a thrilling display of power-hitting, the Team India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant channel MS Dhoni’s helicopter shot during the first T20I of the three-match series against Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The match saw India win by 43 runs, setting a strong tone for the series.

Rishabh Pant made MS Dhoni

In the 16th over of India’s innings, Pant made a helicopter shot against the right-arm pacer. We hate Fernando. Attempting a wide yorker, Fernando misjudged it and delivered a comfortable full-length toss. Using this opportunity, Pant positioned himself well and put the ball into the stumps on the side, much to the delight of the crowd.

Here is the video:

Wicket keepers and their love of helicopters 😉 🚁

Watch the action from #SLVIND LIVE now on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 4 and Sony Sports Ten 5 📺 🤩#SonySportsNetwork #TeamIndia | @RishabhPant17 pic.twitter.com/Bbu7kjje70

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) July 27, 2024

Pant’s explosive innings was 49 runs off 33 balls which included six fours and six fours. The performance marked a return to form for Pant, who had struggled with scores of 0, 4, and 15 in the 2024 T20 World Cup. His partnership of 76 runs with the captain Suryakumar Yadav the third wicket was crucial in building a formidable India.

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A complete win for Team India

During his knock, Pant also reached a milestone, completing 5,000 runs in T20 cricket. His resurgence was a welcome boost for India, who posted 213/7 in 20 overs. Yadav contributed a solid 58 off just 26 balls, while Sri Lanka Matheesha Pathirana he is the best player, taking 4/40.

In reply, Sri Lanka were restricted to just 170 in 19.2 overs, falling short by 43 runs. Pathum Nissanka (79 off 48) and Kusal Perera (45 off 27) gave the home side a strong start but after Mendis was dismissed in the 9th over, the Indian bowlers took control. Riyan Parag was brighter by 3-5 figures, while Arshdeep Singh again Axar Patel scored 2-24 and 2-38, respectively.

The second T20I will be played at the same venue in Pallekele on Sunday, July 27.

Also READ: SL vs IND, 2nd T20I – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Legend Tips & Pitch Report | Sri Lanka vs India 2024