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On the fourth day of the first Test match against New Zealand, Rishabh Pant made history by becoming the fastest wicketkeeper in Indian history to achieve 2500 runs in Test cricket. Pant broke the mark set by the great MS Dhoni, who needed 69 innings to reach the milestone, and Farokh Engineer, who needed 82 innings. Pant accomplished the feat in just 62 innings
With just a 12-run deficit against New Zealand at lunch on Day 4, India maintained their impressive comeback, thanks in large part to the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter. Along with Sarfaraz Khan, who achieved his first Test century, Pant's explosive knock of 53 off 56 balls helped steady India following an early jitter.
India who was trailing by 125 runs before the beginning of the day, looked on Pant and Sarfaraz to lead them in the direction of New Zealand's 402-run first-inning total. Pant did not appear to be uncomfortable at the crease, even though he missed Day 3 due to a knee injury sustained during keeping. After a cautious beginning, he quickly showed off his offensive prowess, hitting left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel for two sixes in quick succession. This was followed by a barrage of strong drives and skillful sweeps.
With a magnificent cover drive off Glenn Phillips, Pant scored his 12th Test fifty off just 55 balls, demonstrating his aggressive yet methodical style of play. His 113-run partnership with Sarfaraz in just 22 overs was crucial in India's attempt to surpass New Zealand's total. Playing in just his fifth Test match, Sarfaraz stole the show with a magnificent century, but Pant's constant presence at the other end proved to be just as important.
One of the main topics of conversation in Indian cricket has been the 26-year-old Pant's quick ascent in the Test format. With noteworthy innings in Australia and England, he has rapidly established himself as a match-winner since making his debut in 2018. This is especially true in international settings. Though Pant has continuously carved out his own legacy, his aggressive batting style and ever-improving glovework behind the stumps have garnered comparisons to Dhoni. Rain forced an early lunch, interrupting play shortly after 11:00 am, but India recovered well enough to win the match. As they strive for victory, India will try to establish a sizable lead with Sarfaraz and Pant still at the wicket.
