Pant Silences Critics with Heroic Knock at Headingley; Becomes Second Wicketkeeper in History to Score Centuries in Both Innings of a Test
New Delhi: In a remarkable turnaround, Rishabh Pant, who had faced consistent criticism for his IPL 2025 performance, has now earned high praise from his former IPL franchise owner, Sanjiv Goenka, after scripting history in the ongoing India vs England Test match at Headingley, Leeds.
Pant scored a magnificent 118 (140 balls) in the second innings, hitting 3 sixes and 15 fours, securing his 8th Test century. This came on the back of a century in the first innings, making him only the second wicketkeeper in Test cricket history to achieve centuries in both innings of a match.
Sanjiv Goenka Tweets: "Aggressive, Bold, Brilliant"
Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka, who was earlier vocal about Pant’s underwhelming IPL season, took to X (formerly Twitter) to laud Pant’s comeback performance:
“Two great games! Back-to-back centuries. Aggressive, bold, brilliant. Only the second wicketkeeper in history to score a century in both innings of a Test match,” Goenka posted, adding congratulations for KL Rahul as well, who also scored a century in the second innings.
Pant’s blazing form has not only put India in a dominant position with a 307-run lead at stumps on Day 4, but also silenced doubters — including his own IPL boss — with a commanding statement of intent.
From IPL Disappointment to Test Glory
In the IPL 2025 season, Pant, who captained the Lucknow Super Giants, endured a string of low scores and was often in the spotlight for failing to deliver under pressure. His performances drew public criticism from Goenka, a moment that had gone viral during the league.
But his recent display in whites has rewritten the narrative.
“Pant has proved once again why he is a red-ball match-winner. He’s fearless, and when he’s in form, there’s no stopping him,” said a senior BCCI official on condition of anonymity.
India on the Brink of Victory
India’s total of 301/4 on Day 4 has extended their overall lead to 307 runs, putting enormous pressure on England. With a day left and a crumbling pitch, India are well poised for a massive win to take the lead in the series.
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