ENG vs IND: Dinesh Karthik hails 'box office' Rishabh Pant

Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik recently opened up about what makes Rishabh Pant such an exciting and unique player in the longest format of the game. Karthik, known for his analytical insight, revealed that Pant is one of his all-time favourite red-ball cricketers to watch because of his fearless approach and ability to dominate quality bowling attacks. According to Karthik, Pant possesses a rare confidence and composure that allows him to counter-attack even under pressure, something not many wicketkeeper-batters have mastered in Test cricket.

Pant gave further evidence of his brilliance in India’s first innings of the series-opening Test against England. He was one of three Indian centurions in that innings and played a defining knock of 134 runs off 251 balls. Displaying a perfect blend of aggression and patience, Pant’s innings featured 12 crisp boundaries and six towering sixes, reflecting his trademark flair. His ability to shift gears seamlessly and unsettle the rhythm of bowlers was once again on full display. This innings not only helped India post a commanding total but also reinforced his position as a game-changer in red-ball cricket. Karthik’s praise seemed more than justified as Pant continues to carve out a legacy in the Test arena.

"I enjoy watching Rishabh Pant bat because of what he brings to the table. That's box office Test cricket. Walking in, he could just give you anything. Completely unpredictable, exhilarating shots. And when I watch him, I don't know on a given day what to expect. He's willing to take on and play bold, audacious shots. He's one of my most favourite cricketers to watch when he plays Test cricket. Because, on a given day, he could take on any bowler, depending on what he feels like is right for the day. That's so instinctive and so pure," stated former Indian wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik. 

Dinesh Karthik expressed his delight at witnessing Rishabh Pant’s return to Test cricket, highlighting how refreshing it was to see the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter back in action. Karthik particularly applauded Pant's role in the crucial 209-run partnership with Shubman Gill, which laid the foundation for India’s commanding first-innings total against England. The duo’s stand not only stabilized the innings but also shifted the momentum decisively in India’s favour.

Pant’s century in the match held historic significance. By notching up his seventh Test hundred, he surpassed MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries — becoming the Indian wicketkeeper with the most centuries in the format. The landmark knock was a mix of controlled aggression and maturity, reaffirming Pant’s status as a key figure in India’s red-ball setup. Karthik’s praise summed up the general sentiment among fans and experts alike, as Pant scripted another memorable chapter in his evolving Test career.

"It's joyful to watch him back. I'm really happy for him. Because, when you see where he was after that accident, then to come and get a 100 in the first Test of a series. I know he got one against Bangladesh, but this is special. You know, when needed, first Test of a series. As vice-captain of the side, batting with his captain and they know each other very well. To get involved in that partnership, fabulous," added Karthik.

What makes Rishabh Pant so special ✨

Ravi Shastri and Dinesh Karthik give their take 🗣️#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND | @RishabhPant17 | @RaviShastriOfc | @DineshKarthik

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 22, 2025