Former Bangladesh skipper Tamim Iqbal, who is commentating in the ongoing first Test between India and Bangladesh, has made a bold prediction for star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. He said that Pant will eventually hold the record for the most hundreds scored by a wicketkeeper in Test cricket.
Tamim Iqbal backs Pant for century record
Pant's recent century against Bangladesh in Chennai marked a remarkable return to the Test format after a lengthy absence. Pant's innings of 109 runs from 128 balls, which included 13 fours and four sixes, was a standout performance. With this century, he equaled the record for the most Test centuries scored by an Indian wicketkeeper, previously held by legendary captain MS Dhoni. Impressed by Pant's achievement, Tamim Iqbal expressed his belief that Pant will go on to break this record and become the all-time leading century-maker among wicketkeepers.
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“I can assure you he will have the most hundreds as a wicketkeeper,” said Tamim on post tea show on Sports18.
After Tamim, former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel then made a bold prediction about Pant's future, suggesting that he could go on to score more than 20 centuries in his Test career.
“I can see him scoring more than 20 hundreds,” said Parthiv.
Legendary Adam Gilchrist holds the record for most Test centuries as a wicketkeeper. Not only did Gilchrist hold the record for most Test tons in the longest format as a wicektkeeper, but he also has the record for most runs scored by a wicketkeeper in Test cricket against his name. Gilchrist amassed an impressive 5570 runs from 96 matches, averaging 47.60 and maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 81.95. His contribution to the Australian team was invaluable, and his records are likely to remain challenging for future wicketkeepers to surpass.
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Pant's impressive Test career
Pant has made a stunning impact in Test cricket, accumulating 2419 runs from 34 matches at a commendable average of 44.79. His impressive record includes six centuries and 11 half-centuries, demonstrating his ability to consistently score runs at the highest level. Pant's batting prowess has been particularly evident in high-pressure situations. He has been dismissed six times in the 90s, showcasing his ability to score big runs but also highlighting the need to convert those starts into centuries more often. Notably, his unbeaten 89* in India's historic victory at the Gabba was a crucial contribution.
With a busy Test season ahead, Pant will be keen to maintain his form and continue to contribute significantly to India's success. The team is set to play one more Test against Bangladesh followed by a three-match series against New Zealand at home. Pant's average of 62.40 in Australia, including one century and two half-centuries, suggests that he is well-equipped to excel in challenging conditions.
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