Leeds, June 21 (H.S.): India’s new Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant showcased stellar performance on the second day of the first Test match against England, marking his seventh Test century with a score of 134 runs, which included 12 fours and 6 sixes off 178 balls. With this achievement, he surpassed MS Dhoni’s record of 6 centuries, becoming the Indian wicketkeeper with the most Test centuries. Pant’s milestone came during his 77 innings, during which he has often emerged as a key player during critical matches, including memorable innings in England, Australia, and South Africa.

In comparison, MS Dhoni, recognized as one of the finest wicketkeeper-batsmen globally, scored 6 centuries in 144 innings over 90 Tests. His standout innings include a formidable 148 against Pakistan in 2006 and a remarkable 224 against Australia in 2013, with all his centuries contributing positively to the team’s performance.

After Dhoni’s retirement, Wriddhiman Saha took on wicketkeeping duties, securing three centuries in 40 Tests (54 innings). His first century was against the West Indies in 2016, followed by impressive performances against Bangladesh and Australia in 2017, significantly impacting the outcomes of those matches. Collectively, these players have shaped India’s extraordinary legacy in Test cricket as wicketkeeper-batsmen.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar