Former Indian cricketer decodes Rishabh Pant’s unconventional sweep after Headingley ton

Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar was left impressed on Saturday by Rishabh Pant's brilliant century in the first innings of the Headingley Test against England.

Tendulkar praised Pant's fearless and unconventional shot-making, highlighting his unique 'falling sweep' technique, which the wicketkeeper-batter executed multiple times during his innings.

Pant, known for his audacious style, scored a commanding 134 runs off 178 balls, including 12 boundaries and six sixes.

One of the standout strokes in his innings was his trademark falling paddle sweep — a shot that often sees him lose balance and end up on the ground.

Tendulkar clarified that this is far from accidental. Sharing his insights on X formerly Twitter, he explained that Pant deliberately goes down with the shot to get under the ball and scoop it over leg slip with control, turning what appears awkward into a smart and effective tactic.

"Rishabh's falling paddle sweep is not accidental. It is intentional and extremely clever. Going down with the shot allows him to get under the ball and scoop it over leg slip with control," Tendulkar wrote.

The former India captain also praised Pant and Shubman Gill for their clever on-field tactics while facing young England spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Tendulkar noted that the pair deliberately spoke loudly in Hindi between deliveries — a subtle ploy to unsettle Bashir, who understands the language.

"I also noticed something interesting during Bashir's spell. Shubman and Rishabh were speaking loudly in Hindi between deliveries. It was not just casual talk," he added. 

"They were playing mind games with the bowler, trying to disrupt his rhythm. These minor details may not appear on the scoreboard, but they can have a significant impact on the game," Tendulkar concluded.

Meanwhile, Pant has added another feather to his cap by becoming the Indian player with the most sixes in the history of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC).

India ended Day three at 90-2 in their second innings, leading by 96 runs, with KL Rahul unbeaten on 47. Sai Sudharsan scored a steady 30 before falling to Ben Stokes, while Shubman Gill remained not out as rain ended play early.

Earlier, India dropped key chances, allowing Brook and debutant Jamie Smith to frustrate the bowlers. Bumrah finished with 5-83 but not before Woakes and Carse’s late surge added 55 valuable runs. The match remains evenly poised going into Day four.