Rishabh Pant vs MS Dhoni: Aakash Chopra weighs in on India’s greatest wicketkeeper debate

Rishabh Pant's rapid rise in Test cricket has sparked a fierce debate over whether he should be considered India's greatest wicketkeeper-batter. However, Pant has been doing well in both home and away Tests, but Aakash Chopra remains doubtful about calling the left-hander as India's greatest wicketkeeper-batter at the moment, citing MS Dhoni’s legacy as a strong contender.

Pant has recently equaled Dhoni’s record of six Test centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper after smashing a brilliant ton in the second innings during Team India’s 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Now, Pant and Dhoni jointly hold the record for the most Test hundreds as the wicketkeeper-batter for India.

Rishabh Pant equals MS Dhoni’s Record, but can he surpass the legend?

On the other hand, Rishabh Pant's ability to shine under pressure in tough overseas conditions, as he already smoked centuries in South Africa, England, and Australia, sets him apart from others. Well, the former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator mentioned that Pant’s explosive batting and fearless approach have not only drawn comparisons to Dhoni, but he reckoned that the 26-year-old star could surpass the legendary cricketer by the end of his career.

Pant’s fearless performances in the SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) have strengthened his growing reputation as a matchwinner and one of the greatest wicketkeepers for India, especially in Test cricket.

At just 58 innings into his Test career, Rishabh Pant has already left a huge impact on the game, and his journey toward becoming India's greatest wicketkeeper-batter is an exciting one to watch. His ability to change the course of the game with both the bat and gloves has made him a key player for India, but Aakassh Chopra believes that the final chapter is yet to be written.

Pant’s rise Impressive, but MS Dhoni still India's greatest wicketkeeper-batter: Aakash Chopra

The cricket pundit said that Rishabh Pant's potential to surpass MS Dhoni is undeniable, but for now, Dhoni is still India’s greatest wicketkeeper-batter. Aakash Chopra added that the Indian player’s consistency and longevity will determine whether he can ultimately become India’s best-ever wicketkeeper-batter in Tests.

Aakash Chopra said on Colors Cineplex: “MS Dhoni's name is present in that list, so there will be a question on that. However, if you see from the viewpoint that we only consider performances in SENA countries, because we have grown up like that, he is the only wicketkeeper to score centuries in South Africa, England, and South Africa.”

Chopra further noted, “He has already scored six centuries, and he has played just 58 innings. Even if he is not the greatest now, he can definitely finish as the greatest.”

Aakash Chopra warns Rishabh Pant's explosive batting poses unique threat

The cricket pundit insisted that Rishabh Pant is the type of player every opposition team should be scared of. Unlike a consistent performer who poses a steady threat, Pant's explosive style brings a different level of concern.

Teams know that if they don't dismiss Rishabh Pant early, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter has the ability to dominate the game and keep them chasing his runs all day. His unpredictable yet powerful approach makes him a dangerous player to face.

Aakash Chopra signed off by saying, “I think every team must be scared of him because you can have a regular player who performs consistently; that's a different fear. You want to get him out at the start or he will make you run the entire day.”