Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant delivered a sublime century on Day 2 of the first Test against England at Headingley, marking a remarkable return to form and fitness. But it wasn’t just the applause from the crowd that lit up the moment — it was the enthusiastic reaction from Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar in the commentary box that caught everyone’s attention. As Pant raised his bat after reaching three figures, Gavaskar’s voice rang out with unfiltered admiration: “Superb, superb, superb.” Later, Pant reacted to the praise with humility and warmth, saying, “It means a lot coming from someone like him.”
The moment was captured on live broadcast, and social media quickly amplified Gavaskar’s genuine admiration for Pant’s innings. Gavaskar, known for his usually measured commentary style, couldn’t contain his excitement as Pant reached the milestone with a controlled flick to the leg side. “That is absolutely superb. Under pressure. Coming back from everything he’s been through. Just superb,” Gavaskar said, adding three heartfelt “superbs” that echoed across Indian households.
Pant celebration was equally emotional. He looked skyward, punched the air, and raised his bat toward the dressing room, where teammates stood applauding. Having returned to Test cricket after a career-threatening accident and months of rehabilitation, this century was not just another mark on the scorecard — it was a personal triumph. The fact that it came in challenging conditions in England made it even more special.
Speaking after the day’s play, Pant addressed Gavaskar’s reaction. “I’ve grown up watching him. To hear that kind of praise from someone like Sunil sir is special. He’s been one of the greatest we’ve had. Those words will stay with me,” Pant said. The acknowledgment of Gavaskar’s praise added a layer of sentiment to what was already a memorable day for Indian cricket fans.
Pant’s innings was a blend of aggression, maturity, and patience — traits that haven’t always defined his Test cricket. He played late, respected the movement early on, and punished loose deliveries with surgical precision. His knock came off 146 balls, studded with 15 boundaries and two sixes, and helped India recover from a tricky 170 for 4 to post a massive first-innings total.
For Sunil Gavaskar, who has often critiqued Indian batters for impatience overseas, Pant display seemed to strike the right note. Gavaskar has previously both praised and critiqued Pant’s flamboyant approach, but this time, he was fully in awe of the 26-year-old’s command at the crease.
The moment also marked a symbolic generational bridge in Indian cricket — a young star being applauded by a legend who had once carried the hopes of a nation. Pant response showed how much such moments matter, even to players who’ve seen success at the highest level.
As the match progresses, Pant innings will stand not just as a turning point on the scoreboard, but also as a reminder of perseverance, self-belief, and the beauty of the game when generations connect over a bat, a ball, and a heartfelt “Superb.”
For more news updates, follow 12B Sports India Facebook .