Is Rishabh Pant India’s Greatest Ever Wicketkeeper-Batter in Tests?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Discover how Sanjay Manjrekar hailed Rishabh Pant as India's greatest wicketkeeper-batter in Tests after his spectacular innings against England. This article dives into Pant's remarkable achievements, the crowd's warm reception, and what makes his style unique in the cricketing world.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant scored a stunning 134 in the first Test.
- He holds the record for the most Test centuries by a wicketkeeper in India.
- His performance received admiration from the crowd and former players alike.
- Celebrated his century with a somersault, showcasing his unique style.
- Manjrekar emphasized Pant’s refreshing approach to batting.
Leeds, June 21 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has proclaimed that Rishabh Pant, who scored a dazzling 134 on the second day of the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Headingley, is the finest wicketkeeper-batter India has ever produced in the long format of the game.
On Saturday, Pant notched up his seventh Test century off just 146 deliveries, setting a new record for the most Test centuries by a wicketkeeper for India, surpassing the legendary MS Dhoni who had six. Notably, this was also Pant's third Test hundred in England—a remarkable feat as no other visiting wicketkeeper has achieved more than one Test century in the nation.
“By far, he is India’s greatest ever Test batter-keeper. I had concerns when he approached the 90s, fearing he might end up with his 8th 90 of his career. It's incredible that he has so many 90s! But he is refreshing to watch,” Manjrekar shared.
“Upon his dismissal and as he raised his bat, many English fans stood to applaud his innings. That’s the beauty of England—these supporters appreciate good cricket. They want their team to win, but they also recognize excellence from the opposition,” he added during his commentary on JioHotstar.
Celebrated amidst cheering from the crowd upon reaching the three-figure mark, Pant, who also achieved 3000 Test runs on the first day, celebrated with his signature somersault—a skill honed through gymnastics during his childhood. Former England fast-bowler Stuart Broad described Pant’s performance as a pure box-office display.
“English crowds are known for respecting and appreciating remarkable innings, but the reception Pant received was one of the loudest I’ve witnessed for an opposition player scoring a century here. It was truly well appreciated due to its entertainment value,” he remarked.
“We were in for a treat! From falling scoops to powerful shots and run-out opportunities, everything unfolded. It had all the elements a Test match fan desires—patience, leaving deliveries, and flair shots that kept pressure on the bowlers. The crowd truly appreciated every aspect of Rishabh Pant’s performance. It was a box office—truly an exceptional innings,” he concluded.
Point of View
I witness the evolution of cricket in India firsthand. With Rishabh Pant's outstanding performance, it's clear that he is not just a player but a beacon of hope for Indian cricket. His ability to captivate audiences with his skill and flair ensures that the sport continues to thrive and inspire future generations. We stand with the nation in celebrating such talents.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sanjay Manjrekar say about Rishabh Pant?
Sanjay Manjrekar hailed Rishabh Pant as India's greatest ever wicketkeeper-batter in Tests after his impressive century in the first Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test.
How many Test centuries does Rishabh Pant have?
Rishabh Pant has achieved a total of seven Test centuries, surpassing MS Dhoni's record of six centuries as a wicketkeeper for India.
What was special about Pant's innings in England?
Pant's innings was remarkable as it marked his third Test century in England, a record that no other visiting wicketkeeper has matched.
