Rishabh Pant produced a spectacular moment at the SSC, smashing Lahiru Kumara for a massive 95-metre six that went all the way onto the stadium roof. Kumara bowled a short delivery down the leg side, and Pant swivelled sharply before pulling it over fine leg with tremendous power. The ball landed on the roof and even destroyed a solar panel, adding extraordinary drama to the big hit.
The force of Pant's shot meant the ball could not be immediately retrieved from the playing area. The fourth umpire quickly rushed onto the field carrying a box of balls, as the officials needed a replacement for the one Pant had launched onto the roof. The unusual sight underlined just how far and how hard the India batter had struck the delivery.
Pant, who had braved a wrist injury to bat on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka, did not take long to get into the thick of the action. Sri Lanka's fast bowlers once again peppered him with short deliveries, but the India wicketkeeper-batter continued to take them on.
Pant took several blows during his stay at the crease, with the India physio rushing in to check on him on multiple occasions. However, the batter was determined not to let the injury stop him from taking on the Sri Lankan attack.
Pant had earlier retired hurt after being hit on his left arm on the first day of the second Test in Colombo on Sunday.
During the third session, Kumara bowled a short delivery at Pant, who attempted to pull it behind square. However, he failed to connect cleanly, and the ball struck his left arm. Pant was seen grimacing in pain and was immediately attended to by the Indian team physiotherapist.
An ice pack was applied to Pant's hand before it was taped up. However, the tape was soon removed as he remained visibly uncomfortable.
Eventually, Pant, who had scored three runs off 15 balls, walked off the field with the physiotherapist in the 58th over of India's innings. Ravindra Jadeja then came to the crease and joined Devdutt Padikkal.
