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Xtra Time Web Desk: He hasn't scored big runs in the ongoing series yet. But does that matter? On and off the field, he's always in the headlines. Can you guess who we're talking about? It's not Rohit Sharma. Nor is it Jasprit Bumrah or Virat Kohli. It's none other than Team India's biggest superstar at the moment, Rishabh Pant. The excitement surrounding him on the first day of the Brisbane Test made that clear. Watching this viral video will undoubtedly lift your spirits and make your heart swell with pride as an Indian.

Despite Day 1 of the third Test between India and Australia being cut short by persistent rain, the brief action at Brisbane's iconic Gabba was enough to rekindle memories of Rishabh Pant's historical exploits. Fans adorned masks of the charismatic wicketkeeper-batter and cheered his name, celebrating the venue that witnessed one of Pant’s finest cricketing moments.

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Pant’s connection with the Gabba is nothing short of legendary. It was here, during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, that he etched his name in cricket history. Reflecting on his return to the ground, Pant expressed his delight, stating it brought back positive energy and unforgettable memories. The fans’ enthusiastic reception, complete with chants of "We love you, Rishabh Pant," reaffirmed the Gabba's special place in his career and in the hearts of Indian cricket followers.

Crowd with Rishabh Pant masks at Gabba ????????

AURA ♾️ #RishabhPant #Cricket #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/7EU5eoHqR5

— Riseup Pant (@riseup_pant17) December 14, 2024

Pant’s love affair with Australia started at the SCG, where his blistering 97 off 118 balls nearly pulled off a miraculous chase of 407. Although India settled for a draw, it set the stage for Pant’s heroics at Brisbane.

In the next Test, Pant delivered an unbeaten 89, anchoring India’s record-breaking chase of 328 at the Gabba. His fearless batting not only handed India its highest successful run chase in SENA countries but also ended Australia’s formidable 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. This victory sealed India’s second consecutive series win in Australia and elevated Pant to global stardom as a clutch performer in Test cricket.

Aussie fans with RishabhPant masks???? #RishabhPant #Cricket #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/TGw9X5p06P

— Riseup Pant (@riseup_pant17) December 14, 2024

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As the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands level at 1-1, fans eagerly await another Pant masterclass. His presence adds an electrifying dimension to the contest, with many hoping for a repeat of his Gabba magic to tilt the series in India’s favour.

Although rain reduced Day 1 to just 13.2 overs with no wickets, the anticipation remains high for Day 2. As the teams prepare to resume play, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Rishabh Pant, whose storied history at this venue continues to share a special place in Indian cricket history.