Introduction:
In a symbolic moment that captured fan attention, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant returned to the cricket field wearing jersey number 18 during an unofficial Test against South Africa A. Pant, who is leading the India A side in his comeback from a serious injury, typically wears the number 17. His choice to wear Virat Kohli’s retired Test jersey sparked widespread discussion on social media, as it was the number Kohli wore in the longest format before his recent retirement from Test cricket.
The Comeback and The Controversy
The match in Bangalore marked a significant step in Pant’s recovery and return to professional cricket. After winning the toss, Pant opted to bowl first. However, the focus quickly shifted from the game to his attire. The sight of Pant in the number 18 jersey, made famous by Virat Kohli in Test matches, went viral online. This follows a similar instance where pacer Mukesh Kumar also wore the number 18 for India A.
The Tradition of Retiring Jersey Numbers
It has become an informal tradition in Indian cricket to “retire” iconic jersey numbers after legendary players bid farewell. The BCCI previously did this for Sachin Tendulkar’s No. 10 and MS Dhoni’s No. 7. However, with Kohli only retiring from Tests and continuing in ODIs, an official decision on his Test jersey number 18 has not been announced by the board, leaving it available for other players in certain contexts.
FAQs:
Q1: Why was Rishabh Pant wearing Virat Kohli’s jersey?
A1: Pant wore the number 18 jersey during an India A match, which was previously worn by Virat Kohli in Test cricket before his retirement from the format.
Q2: Has the BCCI retired Virat Kohli’s number 18 jersey?
A2: No, the BCCI has not officially retired the number 18 jersey. As Kohli continues to play ODI cricket, the number remains in use, notably in non-international ‘A’ team matches.
Q3: Is this the first time another player has worn Kohli’s number?
A3: No, pacer Mukesh Kumar also wore the number 18 for an India A team match during the England tour.
Conclusion:
Rishabh Pant‘s return to cricket was a celebrated event, but his decision to wear Virat Kohli’s retired Test jersey number 18 became the main talking point. The incident highlights the emotional connection fans have with iconic players and their symbols, while also raising questions about the formal policy regarding jersey numbers in Indian cricket.
Disclaimer: This article is based on current events and social media reactions. Jersey number assignments are at the discretion of the team management and board.
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