'He can completely change the game in half an hour': Farveez Maharoof warns Sri Lanka of Rishabh Pant ahead of 1st Test

Highlighting the potential danger ahead of the two-Test series, former Sri Lankan all-rounder Farveez Maharoof identified Rishabh Pant as the ultimate threat for the host nation. Speaking to PTI, Maharoof stated that despite Pant's recent quiet form—including modest returns of two and 28 during India’s six-wicket practice match win in Colombo, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter possesses an explosive, single-handed ability to turn a match on its head in a matter of minutes.

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I would be very worried about Rishabh Pant: Maharoof's big warning to SL

Maharoof warned that Pant's fearlessness and unconventional style make him uniquely equipped to disrupt Sri Lanka's game plan, especially given the hosts' reliance on a spin-heavy attack. With Sri Lanka expected to field at least two specialist spinners alongside part-time options, Maharoof noted that Pant's freedom to play his natural game against both left-arm and off-spin will test the opposition's patience and discipline, making him the player the home side should fear most.

“If I were in the Sri Lankan dressing room, I would be very worried about Rishabh Pant. He is a player who, within half an hour or 45 minutes, can completely change the game," Maharoof said.

A difficult stretch on and off the field has cast a shadow over Rishabh Pant's recent form. Beyond surrendering the Test vice-captaincy to KL Rahul, a challenging IPL 2026 campaign saw him depart the Lucknow Super Giants to rejoin the Delhi Capitals on significantly reduced financial terms, reflecting a turbulent period for the keeper-batter.

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Those ongoing struggles were on full display during the recent tour match, where Pant fell victim to his own aggressive instincts in both outings. After a swift exit chasing a boundary in the first innings, he showed initial restraint in his second attempt, only to hole out once again on a lofted stroke just as he seemed poised to build a substantial score.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka have announced their squad for the series opener, slated to be played from August 15. Dhananjaya de Silva will lead the side while Kamindu Mendis will be his deputy.

Sri Lanka squad for first Test against India:

Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis (vc), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.