Pant's Edgbaston Blitz: India's Wicketkeeper Makes SENA History, Breaks Sixes Record

Rishabh Pant (AP Photo)

Rishabh Pant has etched his name in cricket history by becoming the first Asian wicketkeeper-batter to surpass 2,000 Test runs while playing as a designated wicketkeeper in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). This achievement underscores his growing influence as a dynamic force in modern cricket.

Pant reached this landmark during his spirited second-innings performance, scoring 65 runs off just 58 balls in the ongoing second Test against England at Edgbaston. His innings included eight boundaries and three towering sixes, showcasing his aggressive yet calculated approach as he bolstered India's commanding lead. This knock followed his initial innings score of 25, reinforcing his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.

Currently, Pant boasts a total of 2,023 runs from 28 SENA Tests, maintaining a robust average of 41.28. His impressive record includes six centuries and six half-centuries, with a highest score of 159 not out.

In the current series against England, Pant stands as India's second-highest run-scorer, having accumulated 342 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 85.50 and a striking strike rate of 81.81. His contributions include two centuries and one half-century, with a top score of 134.

Furthermore, Pant broke a long-standing record during his explosive innings at Edgbaston. He now holds the distinction of hitting the most sixes by a visiting batter in Tests played in England, with a remarkable count of 24 sixes, surpassing Ben Stokes' previous record of 21 sixes against South Africa.

His vital contributions were instrumental in India's monumental batting display, amassing a total of 1,014 runs at Edgbaston. This marks their highest-ever aggregate in a Test match, exceeding the 916 runs scored against Australia at the SCG in 2004. This feat represents only the sixth instance of a team surpassing 1,000 runs in a single Test match.