Despite India’s defeat in the Headingley Test, Rishabh Pant’s extraordinary batting display drew high praise from legendary cricketer and former India coach Greg Chappell. According to Chappell, Pant is “reinventing the game as a batsman,” with a fearless approach and inventive shot-making that puts pressure on any opposition.
Pant’s centuries in both innings at Headingley made him only the second wicketkeeper-batter, after Andy Flower, to achieve this rare Test feat. Chappell highlighted how Pant’s fast scoring rate gives India the time and platform to win games, even when the odds seem against them. “Some of the shots that he played probably weren’t in the MCC coaching manual… He is a match-winner,” Chappell said, comparing Pant’s impact to that of Adam Gilchrist—another wicketkeeper who changed the game with his batting prowess.
Chappell also commented on the evolution of cricket equipment, noting how modern bats enable Pant to play strokes not previously possible, adding to his unpredictability and excitement. “He’s exciting to watch. You never know what to expect from the first ball. He keeps the opposition on their toes.”
On the leadership front, Chappell was optimistic about Shubman Gill’s first outing as Test captain. While India couldn’t clinch victory, Chappell felt Gill showed promise and that both he and the Indian think tank would take away valuable lessons for the remainder of the series. “He made a very good start as captain,” Chappell concluded, backing Gill to grow into the role as the series progresses.
