Daijiworld Media Network – Leeds

Leeds, Jun 23: After a disappointing tour of Australia, Rishabh Pant silenced critics with a stunning century in the first Test against England at Leeds, reminding everyone of his game-changing prowess. His 134-run knock not only steadied India's innings but also saw him overtake MS Dhoni’s record for the most Test hundreds by an Indian wicketkeeper.

Devender Sharma, one of Pant’s early coaches, credited the turnaround to his improved defence and mature shot selection. “He worked hard after Australia. We focused on controlling strokes and adapting to English conditions,” Sharma told PTI.

Pant reached his hundred in style, launching a six off Shoaib Bashir in the 100th over. This was his seventh Test ton and second on English soil. During the innings, he also crossed 3,000 Test runs.

“Pant plays from a deeper position and has time on his side—ideal for English pitches,” Sharma said, expressing confidence in his all-format potential despite recent setbacks in the IPL.