Rishabh Pant becomes batter with most Test sixes for India
What's the story
Rishabh Pant has set a new record by becoming India's all-time leading six-hitter in the history of Test cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter achieved this feat on Day 2 of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. He broke the tie with the legendary Virender Sehwag with his first maximum in the innings. Notably, Sehwag smoked 90 Test sixes for India.
Record-breaking shot
Pant's aggressive approach secures him top spot
The historic moment came when Pant, after narrowly escaping a close call on the previous delivery, charged down the track and hit left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj for a six over mid-off. This aggressive approach has always been a hallmark of his Test career. The Eden Gardens crowd erupted in applause, celebrating both Pant's achievement and his record-breaking shot. Notably, this game marked Pant's return to Test cricket after an injury lay-off.
Milestone achievement
Pant's record-breaking journey in Test cricket
Pant has hit a total of 91 sixes in just five years of playing Test cricket. The left-hander's aggressive style has made him one of India's most impactful players in the longest format. With his age on his side and natural attacking flair intact, he is likely to take this record beyond the reach of future generations.
Stats
Pant was dismissed for 27
Meanwhile, Pant smashed 27 off 24 balls during his stay, smashing two fours and as many sixes. Notably, this knock came in the game's second innings as SA were folded for 159/10 in the first. Pant's dismissal had left India at 132/4. Corbin Bosch was the one to trap him. Nonetheless, Pant has now raced to 92 Test sixes. Meanwhile, Sehwag hit 91 Test sixes in total, including one for ICC XI.
Stats
Eight tons in Test cricket
Playing his 48th Test, Pant has raced to 3454 runs at an average of 44.28 (SR: 74.35). His tally of eight Test tons is the most for an Indian keeper-batter, as he also boasts 18 fifties. Each of Pant's 92 Test sixes has come as a designated keeper. Only Australia's Adam Gilchrist (100) has more maximums in this regard.