Rishabh Pant's Edgbaston Blitz: Indian Star Makes SENA History, Breaks Sixes Record in England Test

Rishabh Pant continues to redefine wicket-keeping in Test cricket, achieving a significant milestone during the second Test against England at Edgbaston. He has become the first Asian wicketkeeper-batter to surpass 2,000 Test runs in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) while playing as a designated keeper. This accomplishment highlights his impact and growing stature in the sport.

Pant reached this milestone with a dynamic second-innings knock of 65 from 58 deliveries. His innings included eight boundaries and three sixes, showcasing his aggressive yet calculated approach to the game. He played a key role in bolstering India's substantial lead. This followed his first-innings score of 25 and reinforced his reputation for performing well under pressure, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.

Currently, Pant has amassed 2,023 runs in 28 SENA Tests, maintaining an impressive average of 41.28. His record includes six centuries and six half-centuries, with a highest score of 159 not out.

Throughout the current series against England, Pant has been a standout performer for India, accumulating 342 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 85.50 and a strike rate of 81.81. His contributions include two centuries and one half-century, with a top score of 134.

During his explosive innings at Edgbaston, Pant also broke a long-standing record. He now holds the distinction of hitting the most sixes by a visiting batter in Test matches played in England, with a total of 24 sixes. This surpasses the previous record of 21 sixes held by Ben Stokes against South Africa.

His contributions were vital to India’s batting performance, contributing to a total of 1,014 runs at Edgbaston. This is their highest aggregate in a Test match, surpassing the 916 runs scored against Australia at the SCG in 2004. This marked only the sixth instance of a team exceeding 1,000 runs in a single Test match.