Rishabh Pant gained attention during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018, earning the Emerging Player of the Season award with 684 runs in 14 matches, averaging 52.61 and striking at 173.60. This achievement marks his best season in the IPL. While Pant has been a key player for India’s Test team, his performances in limited-overs formats have not been as strong.
Former Indian wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani expressed that he initially viewed Pant as a unique talent, second only to Sachin Tendulkar. However, Kirmani believes that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the Emerging Player award winner in IPL 2026, has now surpassed Pant in terms of raw talent.
“When Rishabh Pant joined the Indian team, I thought he was the most talented player after Sachin Tendulkar. I considered him the top talent until the arrival of Sooryavanshi. If we focus solely on batting, Sooryavanshi has now outshone him in natural talent,” Kirmani mentioned to the Hindustan Times.
Kirmani advised Pant to improve his physical fitness and consistency as a batsman. He also raised concerns about Pant’s mental approach, urging him to adapt his play according to the game’s demands.
“Rishabh needs to concentrate on his physical fitness, consistency, and temperament. His temperament can be unpredictable. No player can claim, ‘I’m a natural hitter and should hit every ball.’ Some days might work out, but he must consider the game situation and the team’s needs,” Kirmani added.
Rishabh Pant Must Enhance His Fitness: Kirmani
The 1983 World Cup winner emphasized that Pant’s position on the Indian team is no longer guaranteed, stating that the former Lucknow Super Giants captain must prove his worth through consistent performance.
“When Rishabh Pant is chosen, he must demonstrate his physical fitness and performance level. He needs to show that he is more consistent than the other wicketkeepers competing for a spot,” he said.