Rishabh Pant Equals Dhoni's Test Century Record In Comeback Against Bangladesh

GUWAHATI: Rishabh Pant has equalled Team India’s former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni for the most centuries scored in Test cricket by an Indian wicketkeeper. He made a remarkable return after 637 days, achieving his sixth Test century during India's first match against Bangladesh.

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Pant's impressive knock arrived at a critical juncture after a minor top-order collapse in India’s second innings. Walking in during the 20th over, after Virat Kohli’s dismissal for 17, India found themselves in a tricky situation despite a 227-run lead from the first innings. With captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal both failing to turn the tide, Pant’s innings proved vital to India’s stability.

Partnering with Shubman Gill, Pant navigated through a tense Day 2, showing maturity in holding off Bangladesh's bowling attack. On Day 3, Pant adopted an unusually cautious approach in the early stages, focusing on preserving his wicket. His half-century came off 88 balls, slower than his usual aggressive style, reflecting his determination to anchor India’s innings.

As the morning progressed and with rain looming on the forecast, Pant and Gill shifted gears, ramping up the scoring rate. Boundaries began to flow freely as Pant, who had first adopted a defensive mindset, smoothly reverted to his attacking style, piling on the pressure against a demoralized Bangladesh side.

By lunch, India had extended their lead to a commanding 432 runs with seven wickets in hand.

Pant’s century came off 124 balls, marking a triumphant comeback to the Test format.