Some moments in cricket go beyond runs and wickets, reminding us why the sport feels so deeply human. In the midst of pressure, crowds and expectations, small gestures often reveal the heart of the game. That spirit was on full display during India’s second ODI against South Africa in Raipur, a match the hosts eventually lost by four wickets despite brilliant centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli.
During the mid-innings break, Rohit Sharma was fielding near the boundary when Rishabh Pant, seated inside the dugout, noticed a tiny fallen eyelash on the ground. In a lighthearted, affectionate gesture, Rishabh Pant picked it up, placed it gently on Rohit’s wrist and told him to make a wish. Rohit smiled, blew it away and both the cricketers briefly looked toward the sky, sharing a spontaneous and tender moment that offered a warm pause on an otherwise intense evening.
Here is the video of the incident:
https://x.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1996217146217811973
Watch this video directly on X by clicking here
Rishabh Pant, although part of the squad for the series, did not feature in the playing XI for either of the first two ODIs, with KL Rahul taking over wicketkeeping duties. Rohit, meanwhile, entered the series in fine form after his impressive performances against Australia. He carried that rhythm into the Ranchi opener against South Africa, scoring a fluent 57 off 51 balls, peppered with three timely sixes.
His second outing, however, didn’t unfold as smoothly. Rohit began confidently, smashing three consecutive boundaries off Nandre Burger in the fifth over, showing signs of yet another strong innings. But Nandre Burger responded sharply on the very next delivery, finding Rohit’s edge. Although the on-field umpire initially gave him not out, South Africa’s review confirmed the dismissal, ending Rohit Sharma’s stay at just 14 runs off eight balls.
Despite the highs and lows of the match, the gentle eyelash wish between Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant stood out — a small reminder that even on demanding days, cricket still leaves room for warmth, friendship and joy.
