Rishabh Pant has a golden opportunity to surpass Kohli and Gavaskar, and equal Ganguly's record, by scoring another century in England.
Rishabh Pant: The much-anticipated Test series between India and England commences on June 20th at Headingley, Leeds. This Indian team presents a changed face. Following the retirements of stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the team rests on the shoulders of its young players. Shubman Gill captains the side, with Rishabh Pant as vice-captain. Pant is on the verge of achieving a record that could place him alongside legends like Kohli, Gavaskar, and Ganguly.
A Historic Opportunity for Pant
Rishabh Pant has already delivered outstanding performances in Test matches played in England. In 9 Test matches, he has amassed 556 runs, including two centuries and two half-centuries, with a highest score of 146. If he manages another century in this series, he will surpass Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar, both with two centuries each, in the list of Indian batsmen with the most Test centuries in England.
A Chance to Equal Ganguly
Furthermore, another century would see Rishabh Pant equal Sourav Ganguly's record of three Test centuries in England. Rahul Dravid, with six centuries in England, remains at the top of this list. However, judging by Pant's performance on foreign soil, he possesses the capability to climb higher in this ranking.
Pant's Journey Since 2018
Pant began his Test career against England in 2018. Since then, he has accumulated 2948 runs in 43 Test matches, including six centuries and 15 half-centuries. His aggressive batting style and ability to adapt to different conditions distinguish him from other batsmen. Notably, Pant's bat frequently ignites on foreign soil, be it Australia or England.
New Responsibility, New Enthusiasm
Pant's role as vice-captain will provide extra motivation. With the absence of senior batsmen like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the team needs a player who can step up in times of crisis, and Pant perfectly fits this role. Team management now views him not just as a wicket-keeper batsman, but as a leader.
Awaiting Victory in England
The Indian team hasn't won a Test series in England for the past 17 years. The last victory was in 2007 under Rahul Dravid's captaincy, with a 1-0 win. Subsequent series in 2011, 2014, and 2018 resulted in defeats. The last series ended in a 2-2 draw, but hopes are significantly higher this time due to the team's renewed energy and approach.
What Do the Statistics Say?
- Pant's Test Statistics in England: 9 matches, 556 runs, 2 centuries, 2 half-centuries
- Overall Test Career: 43 matches, 2948 runs, 6 centuries, 15 half-centuries
- Most Test Centuries in England (Indian Players):
- Rahul Dravid – 6
- Sourav Ganguly – 3
- Sunil Gavaskar – 2
- Virat Kohli – 2
- Rishabh Pant – 2 (very close to a third)
Fans' Expectations from Pant
While Indian fans will be keenly watching Shubman Gill's captaincy, there are high expectations for big innings from Rishabh Pant. In the team's new structure, Pant is viewed not only as a batsman but also as a match-finisher and inspirational leader. If he confidently shoulders this responsibility, this Test series could prove to be a turning point in his career.
