New Delhi: During the 2019 World Cup, a photo of Indian cricketers went viral, sparking widespread curiosity: “Who’s hand is resting on Rishabh Pant’s shoulder?” The image quickly became the subject of much debate. Now, after six years, Pant has finally disclosed the story behind the iconic photo. In the viral image, Rishabh Pant is seen alongside MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mayank Agarwal. The picture was taken during the Boys Day Out event at the 2019 World Cup, though at the time, no one knew it would turn into a humorous and confusing viral sensation.
Rishabh Pant solved the mystery himself:
There is no one behind Rishabh Pant in the picture, yet a hand appears on his left shoulder. Recently, Rishabh Pant invited fans to ask questions with the hashtag #AskRP on the social media platform X, writing, “Got some time, and got lots of answers. Ask your questions with #AskRP.” A fan shared the same viral picture and asked Pant, “Solve the biggest mystery. Whose hand was on your shoulder?” Pant responded, “Mayank Bhai’s,” finally solving the six-year-old mystery.
Clear the biggest mystery. Whose hand was on your shoulder? #AskRP pic.twitter.com/VerGNbbxdR
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) January 15, 2025
India’s campaign in the 2019 World Cup concluded with a defeat to New Zealand in the semi-finals. Rohit Sharma emerged as the top run-scorer with 648 runs, but the team fell short of winning the tournament. This World Cup was notable for being MS Dhoni’s final international appearance and Virat Kohli’s last ODI World Cup as captain.
Rishabh Pant Can play in the Ranji Trophy again:
Rishabh Pant has confirmed his availability for Delhi’s upcoming Ranji Trophy clash against Saurashtra, scheduled to begin in Rajkot on January 23, as announced by DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma on Tuesday. Pant’s most recent appearance in the Ranji Trophy was during the 2017-2018 season.
Uncertainty over Virat Kohli’s participation:
Although Pant has confirmed his availability, there is still ambiguity regarding Virat Kohli’s participation. Kohli’s last Ranji Trophy match for Delhi dates back to 2012, and it is uncertain whether he will be included in the squad for the upcoming games.
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