Former Australian captain and ex-India coach Greg Chappell has drawn attention in the cricketing world by comparing Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant to the legendary Adam Gilchrist. In a recent interaction, Chappell praised Pant’s aggressive style of play, calling it both refreshing and impactful, and said it reminded him of the influence Gilchrist once had on international cricket.
Chappell, who has closely followed Pant’s career over the years, highlighted how Pant’s presence in the Indian lineup changes the dynamics of a game. According to him, few players today possess the fearless mindset and ability to dominate bowlers across formats the way Pant does.
“Rishabh Pant reminded me of Adam Gilchrist the first time I saw him play. There is a similar level of confidence, attacking intent, and the ability to turn the match around in a session,” said Chappell. He added that such cricketers do not just play their role but redefine it.
Adam Gilchrist, widely regarded as one of the greatest wicketkeeper-batsmen in cricket history, revolutionized the role with his explosive batting in the lower-middle order for Australia. Chappell believes Pant is capable of doing something similar for Indian cricket, especially in Test matches where his counter-attacking innings have often changed the course of games.
Pant’s batting heroics in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020–21, particularly his match-winning knock in Brisbane, were cited as examples of his ability to perform under pressure. Chappell noted that innings like those do not just boost team morale but also unsettle opposition strategies.
“Pant has this rare quality where he is fearless but not reckless. He knows when to accelerate and when to hold back. That kind of instinct is not taught; it comes naturally,” Chappell remarked.
Apart from his batting, Pant’s wicketkeeping has also improved significantly, especially in overseas conditions. Though initially criticized for his glove work, the young cricketer has worked hard to evolve into a reliable keeper, as evident from his performances in England, Australia, and South Africa.
Pant’s comeback to international cricket after a serious accident has also been widely appreciated. His resilience off the field and his consistent performances since returning have further established his value in the Indian team setup.
The comparison with Gilchrist is not the first time Pant has been praised by legends of the game. Several former cricketers, including Sunil Gavaskar and Michael Vaughan, have acknowledged his potential to become one of the most impactful players of his generation.
With India preparing for crucial international assignments in all three formats, Rishabh Pant’s role is expected to be central. As the team looks to balance aggression and stability, Pant stands out as a player who can deliver both — with the bat and behind the stumps.
