Basit Ali Lauds Rishabh Pant's Aggressive Century, Draws Sehwag Comparison

Former cricketer Basit Ali compared Rishabh Pant to Virender Sehwag after Pant's century against Bangladesh. Pant, returning from a severe accident, showcased aggressive play, forging a 167-run partnership and scoring 109 with 13 fours and four sixes in Chennai's Test. Basit praised Pant's attack-as-defense style.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has likened the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant to India's legendary opener, Virender Sehwag. Following a life-threatening accident in December 2022, Pant made a stunning return to the Test arena for India.

In his first innings, Pant scored a promising 39 before celebrating a spectacular century in Chennai during the opening Test against Bangladesh. Ali drew parallels between Pant and Sehwag after witnessing the southpaw's relentless attack against Bangladesh, noting that both players employed aggressive play as their primary defense in Test cricket.

"India has had two aggressive batters. The first was Virender Sehwag, who defended by attacking, often going for a boundary on the first ball. The second is Rishabh Pant, whose approach is similar. He plays attacking cricket exceptionally well, as seen against Bangladesh. He's truly won hearts," Ali commented on his YouTube channel. On Day 3 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Pant's aggressive strokeplay significantly contributed to India's substantial score.

With support from Shubman Gill, Pant formed a 167-run partnership, boosting India's total to a formidable 515 runs. When Pant completed his century, Virat Kohli stood and applauded his remarkable achievement.

Pant's 109-run innings showcased a blend of front-foot and back-foot play. Against spinners, he relied on back-foot tactics, displaying patience and precision. Occasionally, he charged down the pitch, using the surface to his advantage, including a six off Shakib Al Hasan in the 53rd over.

His outstanding performance, which included 13 fours and four sixes, concluded when he was caught and bowled by Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Pant received a standing ovation from the crowd and acknowledged it with a gesture towards the sky.

(With inputs from agencies.)