Rishabh Pant: India’s young wicketkeeper who inspires with every catch and every run

By Ishwi Singh  |  First Published Oct 4, 2024, 10:03 AM IST

Rishabh Pant, the explosive Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has taken the cricketing world by storm. From his record-breaking performances in the U19 World Cup to his remarkable comeback after a serious car crash, Pant's journey is one of talent, resilience, and determination.

Rishabh Pant is a prominent Indian cricketer who plays as a wicketkeeper and batsman for the national men's cricket team. He holds the record for the fastest half-century in the Under-19 World Cup, showcasing his explosive batting talent. Pant made his One Day International (ODI) debut on October 21, 2018, against West Indies in Guwahati, marking the beginning of his international career.

Background

Rishabh Pant was born on October 4, 1997, in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. He completed his schooling at the Indian Public School in Dehradun and later graduated from Shri Venkateshwara College, University of Delhi. His father, Rajendra Pant, and mother, Saroj Pant, have been supportive of his cricketing aspirations, along with his sister, Sakshi Pant. Currently, Rishabh Pant is unmarried.

Rishabh Pant’s interests

Rishabh Pant enjoys various hobbies, including travelling and listening to music. Among his favourite cricketers are Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, Suresh Raina, and Harbhajan Singh. Outside of cricket, he admires Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

Rishabh Pant’s owns several properties in Delhi and Uttarakhand. His main residence in Delhi spans 5000 square feet. As per media reports, his net worth stands at Rs 100 crore.

Interesting facts about Rishabh Pant

Pant's cricketing journey began in 2015 when he played his first first-class match. In 2016, he joined the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for a staggering Rs 1.9 crore. 

His record in the Under-19 World Cup includes making the fastest half-century, and he regards Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist as his idol.

Rishabh Pant’s International Debut

He made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut for India in January 2017, followed by his Test debut against England in Nottingham on 18 August 2018. Shortly after, he played his first ODI match against West Indies in October 2018. 

In January 2019, Pant was recognised as the ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer of the Year at the 2018 ICC Awards. Then, in February 2021, he received the Men's Player of the Month award in the first edition of the ICC Player of the Month Awards.

Rishabh Pant’s Records

Throughout his career, Pant has achieved several remarkable records. In 2016, he became India’s second player to score 267 runs in a match during the Under-19 World Cup. He also made 309 runs against Maharashtra in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy, becoming the third youngest Indian to score a triple century in first-class cricket. 

In his Test match debut in 2018, he took seven wickets, and he made history by being the first Indian and the twelfth international player to hit a six on the first ball of his debut match.

In April 2024, Rishabh Pant was included in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup in June, marking his remarkable return to international cricket after a serious car crash in late 2022. His exceptional performance as a wicketkeeper during the tournament not only showcased his resilience but also highlighted his vital role in the team's success.

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