Pant Scripts History, Surpasses Dhoni To Become India’s Leading Wicketkeeper Run-Scorer In Away Tests

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant surpassed former captain MS Dhoni to become India’s highest run-scorer as a designated wicketkeeper in away or neutral Tests.

Pant achieved the milestone during India’s second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Monday. At the time of reporting, he had scored 2,501 runs in away and neutral Tests at an average of 41.68, going past Dhoni’s tally of 2,496 runs.

Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer is third on the list with 1,209 runs, followed by Syed Kirmani with 1,109 and Kiran More with 901.

The milestone came a day after Pant was forced to retire hurt after being struck on his left arm during the opening day of the second Test on Sunday.

The incident occurred in the third session when Sri Lanka pacer Lahiru Kumara bowled a short delivery. Pant attempted a pull shot behind square but missed, and the ball struck him on the left arm.

The left-hander was visibly in pain and received immediate attention from the Indian team physiotherapist. An ice pack was initially applied before his arm was strapped, though the tape was later removed as he continued to experience discomfort.

Pant eventually walked off the field alongside the physiotherapist in the 58th over after scoring three runs from 15 balls.

However, he returned to bat on the second day after Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando dismissed Saransh Jain for six to claim India’s sixth wicket.

Pant joined Dhruv Jurel at the crease as India looked to consolidate their innings. Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers continued to test him with short-pitched deliveries, with Pant taking a couple of blows to the shoulder before the drinks break.

Despite the physical challenge, Pant showed resilience as he and Jurel added 47 runs to steady India’s innings by the drinks interval.