Former cricketer and national selector Devang Gandhi commended Rishabh Pant as India’s premier wicket-keeper batter in Tests, highlighting Pant’s memorable match-winning innings at the Gabba in 2021. Pant, set to play his 50th Test match against Afghanistan, has scored 3476 runs in 49 Tests at an average of 42.91 with a strike rate of 74.24, including eight centuries and 18 fifties.
Despite recent challenges, including a lackluster performance in the IPL 2026 as captain of Lucknow Super Giants and losing the Test vice-captaincy to KL Rahul, Pant’s aggressive approach in Tests has faced scrutiny. However, the shift from IPL to Test cricket presents an opportunity for Pant to rediscover his form and excel with the bat.
Gandhi emphasized the significance of Pant’s impact in Test cricket, particularly overseas, praising his match-winning contributions and improved wicket-keeping skills. Gandhi expressed hope that Pant converts his upcoming 50th Test into a century, acknowledging him as one of India’s best wicket-keeper batters.
Gandhi recalled Pant’s remarkable innings at the Gabba, where he played a crucial role in India’s historic series win against Australia. Pant’s exuberant personality on the field was also lauded by Gandhi, who appreciated Pant’s unique style and flair, emphasizing the need for characters like Pant in cricket. Gandhi encouraged Pant to focus on his health, fitness, and returning to basics to overcome recent struggles in white-ball cricket.
Gandhi suggested that Pant should reflect on his early career successes, focus on playing close to the body, and work on the basics to improve his white-ball game. Emphasizing the importance of a clear mindset and adapting to different bowlers, Gandhi expressed confidence in Pant’s ability to bounce back stronger in white-ball cricket.
