England’s seasoned leg-spinner Adil Rashid has sparked an intense debate in global cricket circles by questioning Rishabh Pant’s automatic selection as wicketkeeper in an all-time ‘World Test XI’. Rashid’s remarks, made during a recent interview with a UK podcast ahead of England’s Test summer, are trending across cricket forums as fans and analysts dissect the Indian star’s achievements versus other modern and historical wicketkeeping legends.
Adil Rashid’s Provocative Question
During a rapid-fire segment on the podcast, Rashid was asked to name his preferred Test XI featuring only players from the 21st century. When co-hosts included Rishabh Pant as wicketkeeper without deliberation, Rashid interjected:
“Hold on, what has Rishabh Pant done so far to be included? He’s talented, no doubt, but there are others with proven consistency over years.”
His statement was met with surprise, given Pant’s reputation for redefining wicketkeeper-batsman roles in India’s recent overseas victories.
Rishabh Pant’s Record: A Quick Review
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | 100s/50s | Catches/Stumpings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 38 | 2271 | 43.67 | 5/11 | 119/14 |
| ODI | 30 | 865 | 34.60 | 1/5 | 26/1 |
| T20I | 66 | 987 | 22.43 | 0/3 | 40/8 |
In Tests, Pant’s centuries at The Oval (2018), Sydney (2019), and his iconic match-winning 89* at Brisbane (2021) have been hailed as career-defining innings.
Why Rashid’s Comments Sparked Backlash
Cricket fans quickly pointed out:
- Historic Wins: Pant’s fearless batting was instrumental in India’s back-to-back Border-Gavaskar Trophy wins in Australia.
- Role Redefinition: As a wicketkeeper-batsman, his strike rate and counter-attacking approach have changed India’s lower middle order dynamics.
- Match Impact: Many argued he has played innings of higher impact in Tests compared to established names who accumulated safer averages.
However, Rashid’s critique resonates with traditionalists who prioritise longevity, keeping consistency, and minimal errors behind the stumps alongside batting prowess.
Comparing Pant To Modern And Historical Test Keepers
| Wicketkeeper | Tests | Runs | Average | Dismissals | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adam Gilchrist | 96 | 5570 | 47.60 | 416 | Revolutionised aggressive keeper-batsman role |
| MS Dhoni | 90 | 4876 | 38.09 | 294 | Successful India captain, clutch home performer |
| Kumar Sangakkara* | 134 | 12400 | 57.40 | 182 | Primarily as batsman but kept early career |
| Mark Boucher | 147 | 5515 | 30.30 | 555 | Highest dismissals by a Test keeper |
| Rishabh Pant | 38 | 2271 | 43.67 | 133 | Brisbane 89*, Sydney 97 standout knocks |
*Note: Sangakkara’s keeping stats limited as he played majority Tests as specialist batsman.
Analysts Weigh In On Rashid’s Criticism
Former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior supported Rashid’s broad point:
“Pant is explosive, no doubt. But a ‘World Test XI’ is about consistency, longevity, and adaptability in all conditions. He is on track but still young.”
Meanwhile, Harbhajan Singh dismissed Rashid’s views:
“Pant has done enough to be considered among the world’s best today. Few keepers have played match-winning innings overseas like he has at such a young age.”
Pant’s Strengths & Areas For Growth
Strengths:
- Aggressive batting that unsettles top bowling attacks.
- Game-changing innings under pressure.
- Quick footwork and improved glove work in spinning conditions.
Areas To Improve:
- Keeping consistency against fast bowlers in seaming conditions.
- Shot selection under defensive match scenarios.
- Injury management for longevity, as seen after his car accident layoff.
What The Fans Are Saying
Twitter Reactions:
- “Adil Rashid probably missed Brisbane 2021. Pant walks into any current World XI.” – @cricketnerd
- “I get Rashid’s point. Pant is an amazing batter, but we need 5-6 years of solid keeping too before calling him an all-time great.” – @oldschooleye
- “Adam Gilchrist set the benchmark. Pant is getting there, but let’s not rush legends status.” – @ausfanclub
Pant’s Recent Return From Injury
Rishabh Pant made a successful comeback in IPL 2025 after recovering from his near-fatal car crash in late 2022. His aggressive half-centuries for Delhi Capitals reassured selectors and fans, leading to his inclusion in India’s England Test tour where he scored 41 and 72* in the Edgbaston Test, showing signs of regaining top form.
Does Pant Make A World Test XI Today?
The answer depends on selection philosophy:
| Selection Philosophy | Preferred Keeper |
|---|---|
| Aggressive lower order batting, counter-attacking intent | Rishabh Pant / Adam Gilchrist |
| Pure keeping skills, dismissals and consistency | Mark Boucher |
| Leadership, tactical depth | MS Dhoni |
| Longevity with batting average | Kumar Sangakkara (as batter) |
Upcoming Opportunities To Cement His Legacy
Pant’s upcoming fixtures include:
- India vs Bangladesh Test series (August 2025)
- Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India (November-December 2025)
- 2026 Asian Test Championship (April 2026)
Consistent match-winning performances in these high-stakes tournaments will help silence critics and solidify his position as a modern great in the keeper-batsman category.
Conclusion
Adil Rashid’s provocative comments serve as a reminder of cricket’s contrasting selection philosophies: consistency versus impact. While Pant has proven his match-winning calibre, sustained excellence across conditions over the next decade will be vital to ensure his name remains part of ‘World Test XI’ debates for years to come.
Disclaimer
This news article is intended for informational and analytical purposes only. It does not constitute professional cricket coaching or selection recommendations. Readers are advised to follow official team announcements and governing body releases for the latest player selections and performance validations.
