At just 26, Rishabh Pant continues to defy expectations. Critics doubted his unorthodox and aggressive batting style in Tests, yet he has become one of India’s most dependable overseas batters. They questioned his wicketkeeping, but he’s now pulling off stunning catches and stumpings.
After a career-threatening accident, many thought he’d never be the same, but Pant scored over 400 runs in IPL 2024, won the T20 World Cup, and marked his Test return with a dream century.
Pant’s rapid rise in world cricket was anticipated, but perhaps not so soon. In six years, despite missing one due to injury, he has already matched MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries.
As Wasim Akram calls him, Pant is truly a “miracle kid.” His rare blend of skills naturally draws comparisons to legends like Adam Gilchrist and Dhoni.
However, former New Zealand batter Ian Smith believes Pant still has a long way to go before he can be mentioned alongside Dhoni. Smith appreciates Pant’s abilities but points out that Dhoni’s impact on Indian cricket and his “hero factor” are hard to match. “
Pant has massive shoes to fill,” Smith said on talkSPORT cricket, acknowledging Pant’s talent but suggesting he still has more to prove to reach Dhoni’s level.
Smith also praised Pant’s attitude, noting his resilience and willingness to take on any challenge. “He’s not the best gloveman, but he’s improving. He reminds me of Gilchrist in that regard,” Smith added, rating Pant highly for his dynamic contributions to Indian cricket.