Unraveling the Mystery: Whose Hand Was on Rishabh Pant in the 6-Year-Old Photo?

New Delhi: In a blast from the past during the 2019 World Cup, a photo of Indian cricketers caused a stir on social media, with everyone wondering, “Whose hand is that on Rishabh Pant’s shoulder?” The image quickly grabbed the attention of fans and sparked numerous discussions. And now, after six long years, Pant has finally spilled the beans on the story behind the unforgettable photo. The viral picture captured Rishabh Pant in the company of cricketing stalwarts MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mayank Agarwal. This candid moment was frozen during the Boys Day Out event at the 2019 World Cup, even though no one could have predicted that it would later become a lighthearted and enigmatic 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.