Former New Zealand cricketer Ian Smith has lauded Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant for his remarkable performance in the first Test against Bangladesh. Playing his first Test match in nearly two years, Pant scored a brilliant 109 in the second innings of India’s commanding 280-run victory in Chennai.
Pant’s contributions were crucial, especially after his 39 in the first innings when India struggled at 34/3. His fighting attitude and versatility have drawn comparisons to legendary wicket-keepers, with Smith being among his admirers.
Speaking on talkSPORT cricket, Smith remarked: “Rishabh Pant… I like him because he’s just got that attitude. He’s not going to run away from a fight. If you ask him to open, he’ll open. If you ask him to bat at 5, he’ll do it. He is probably not the best gloveman the world has ever seen but he is working on it, getting better at it. He is Gilchrist-like in that regard.”
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Pant has amassed 2,419 runs in 34 Tests at an impressive average of nearly 45, with six centuries to his name. Smith also highlighted Pant’s potential to continue growing, especially as he works on his wicket-keeping skills.
Pant vs MS Dhoni Debate Heats Up
Smith also weighed in on the ongoing debate comparing Pant to MS Dhoni in Test cricket. While Dhoni retired with 4,876 runs in 90 Tests, Pant has already equaled his tally of six centuries in less than half the number of matches.
“Pant has big shoes to fill because they’ve had a revolving door since Dhoni,” Smith said. “But it’s hard to surpass MS when you talk about the hero factor. Pant’s life will change dramatically as he continues to perform at this level.”
Pant, who has 120 catches and 14 stumpings to his name, still has a way to go to match Dhoni’s 256 catches and 38 stumpings, but he is steadily carving out his legacy.
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