Rishabh Pant Overtakes MS Dhoni to Become India’s Top Away-Test Wicketkeeper-Batter
COLOMBO: In a significant milestone that underscores his evolution into one of Test cricket’s most formidable middle-order threats, Rishabh Pant has surpassed the legendary MS Dhoni to become India’s highest run-scorer as a designated wicketkeeper in away and neutral Test matches.
Pant crossed the 2,500-run threshold during India’s second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Monday. The achievement elevates him past Dhoni’s long-standing tally of 2,496 runs. Perhaps even more impressive than the raw numbers is the contrast in efficiency; while Pant has reached the summit with an average of nearly 42, Dhoni concluded his away Test career with an average of 32.84.
The list of India’s most prolific glovemen overseas highlights the gap between the modern-day star and his predecessors. Former keeper Farokh Engineer sits in third place with 1,209 runs (avg. 32.67), followed by Syed Kirmani (1,109 runs at 21.74) and Kiran More (901 runs at 29.06).
A Test of Resilience
Pant’s milestone is made all the more remarkable by the physical adversity he navigated to achieve it. On Sunday, during the third session, the 28-year-old suffered a concerning blow to his left arm from a sharp, short-pitched delivery by Sri Lankan pacer Lahiru Kumara.
Visible pain forced the team physiotherapist to intervene immediately, applying an ice pack and heavy strapping to the injury. Pant was forced to retire hurt after scoring just three runs from 15 balls, leaving the team in a precarious position as the Sri Lankan bowling attack applied sustained pressure.
Returning to the Fold
Proving his mental and physical fortitude, Pant returned to the crease on Monday following the dismissal of debutant Saransh Jain. Despite clear discomfort, he rejoined Dhruv Jurel at a time when India required a stabilizing presence.
The Sri Lankan quicks, specifically Asitha Fernando, continued to test Pant with a barrage of short-pitched deliveries. In a display of characteristic grit, Pant absorbed several additional blows to the shoulder throughout the morning session. Alongside Jurel, he managed to forge a critical partnership, effectively steadying the innings and reaffirming his status as the cornerstone of India’s Test batting lineup away from home.
Most runs as wicketkeeper in away/neutral Tests (India):
- *2,501 – Rishabh Pant (Avg: 41.68)**
- 2,496 – MS Dhoni (Avg: 32.84)
- 1,209 – Farokh Engineer (Avg: 32.67)
- 1,109 – Syed Kirmani (Avg: 21.74)
- 901 – Kiran More (Avg: 29.06)
