Rishabh Pant's Remarkable England Test Display Draws High Praise, Career-Best Ranking

Rishabh Pant is garnering widespread acclaim following his remarkable performance in the first Test against England. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman's twin centuries have propelled him to a career-best seventh position in the ICC Test rankings for batters.

Rishabh Pant scored centuries in both innings of the first Test between India and England. (AP)

Pant's scores of 134 and 118 in the Leeds Test, though ultimately resulting in an England victory, have solidified his position as a key player for Team India. He joins Zimbabwe's Andy Flower as the only wicketkeepers to achieve the feat of scoring two centuries in the same Test match.

His success is especially significant given his near-fatal car accident in December 2022. After a 15-month absence from the sport, Pant has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka lauded Pant's performance, highlighting his inspirational comeback journey.

Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka's post on Rishabh Pant. (Image: Screenshot/X)

Goenka's social media post read, "From battling the odds after his unfortunate accident to batting his way to 7th in the ICC Test rankings, @RishabhPant17’s comeback story is truly inspirational. By setting new records and becoming the first Indian keeper-batter to hit 800 rating points, he continues to raise the bar." He concluded by wishing Pant and Team India the best for the remainder of the series.

Pant's return to cricket also saw him secure a lucrative IPL contract with LSG for Rs 27 crore at the November auction. While his initial IPL form raised concerns, his recent performance against England has silenced any doubts about his capabilities.