Rishabh Pant is India's biggest match-winner in Tests, claims Mohammad Kaif and drops big prediction

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has labeled Rishabh Pant as India's biggest matchwinner in Test cricket, predicting that the star wicketkeeper-batter will reach even greater heights. Pant has yet again proved why he's considered India's biggest matchwinner in Test cricket.

With his fearless return to the Test arena, Pant’s explosive 109 off 128 balls against Bangladesh in Chennai wasn’t just a statement, but it was also a reminder of his unmatched ability to turn the tide in Team India’s favor. With this knock, Pant made a comeback to all three formats with a bang.

Mohammad Kaif Hails Rishabh Pant as India's go-to nan in Tests

His century, followed by a breezy 39-run knock in the first innings, set the stage for India’s massive 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The left-hander stitched a commanding 167-run stand with Shubman Gill in Chennai to prove why he is India’s most dangerous weapon in crunch situations.

Reflecting on Pant's performance, Kaif pointed out that the star wicketkeeper has been a game-changer for Team India in crucial matches, including memorable knocks at the Gabba.

While rising stars like Ishan Kishan have made waves with performances in domestic tournaments, including the Duleep Trophy 2024, Pant’s place in the Test side seems just unshakeable.

Kaif stressed that Pant’s presence in the Indian cricket team makes it challenging for other wicketkeepers like Ishan to secure a spot, even after his recent hundred in the Duleep Trophy 2024. He also warned Australia that Pant will be at his prime in the upcoming Test series.

Pant has been the biggest matchwinner for India: Kaif

Pant’s knack for delivering under pressure, especially in challenging conditions like Australia, South Africa, and England, earned him a reputation as India’s go-to man, especially in the longest format of the game.

Mohammad Kaif was quoted as saying by the Times of India, “Rishabh Pant wasn't there the last time when England toured India. Pant has been the biggest matchwinner for India, coming in at No. 5-6. He has played many match-winning knocks, none bigger than the innings at the Gabba that all remember. He has hit hundreds in tough conditions in South Africa and England also.”

Rishabh Pant will hit his peak around 27: Mohammad Kaif

With a bright future ahead, Kaif believes that Pant is best suited for Test cricket. Recently, Pant has matched his idol, MS Dhoni, in terms of Test centuries as an Indian wicketkeeper, with both players now having six Test hundreds to their names.

With his fearless approach, sharp instincts, and match-winning ability, Pant is set to dominate for years to come and become an even greater force for India in Test cricket.

Kaif signed off by saying, “So I think Rishabh Pant, stat wise, is best suited to Test cricket; that's his best format. There is no need for the Indian think tank to think of anybody other than Rishabh Pant. His best is yet to come; he is yet to hit his peak. When he'll be around 27, his game will become more refined, and then he will hit his peak. So, Rishabh Pant's best time is yet to come, especially in Test cricket.”