The keeper-batter returned to the Test fold for the first time since his car accident in December 2022 and marked it with a typical swashbuckling century that helped India beat Bangladesh by 280 runs in the first match of a two-game series in Chennai. It was Pant’s sixth Test ton and first after returning to competitive action that he hit on the third day of the opening Test at Chepauk. Along side Pant, Shubman Gill too scored a century as India set Bangladesh a target of 515, with the visiting team getting dismissed for 234 in their second innings. “100 was special because I love playing in Chennai. After injury I wanted to play all three formats and this was my first Test. Hope to get better every day,” Pant said after India’s win. “It was emotional, I wanted to score each and every match which didn’t happen but wanted to do well in Tests, which is where I belong the most. Being on the field gives me pleasure more than anything else.” ‘Read situation of match’ Left handed Pant scored 109 of 128 balls with 13 fours and four sixes, adding a 167-run stand for the fourth wicket with Gill (119 off 176 balls), lifting the home team from 67/3 to 287/4 declared in their second innings. “I don’t know what people say outside but I try to read the situation in my own way. When you are 30-3, you need to stitch a partnership. That’s what Gill and I did. “To do it with a guy who I have a great relationship with is special,” Pant said.