There was a time when Indian fans would rush into Test stadiums just to watch Virat Kohli bat. His presence alone brought energy.
But with Kohli now retired from the longest format, someone has to take that place in the Indian team. And according to India legend Virender Sehwag, Rishabh Pant perfect heir to Kohli.
Sehwag made a statement that has got everyone talking. He called Pant the biggest attraction in Test cricket after Kohli. His words have once again highlighted Pant’s importance to the team, especially at a time when India is preparing for the upcoming England Test series.
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What did Virender Sehwag say about Rishabh Pant?
Sehwag spoke highly of Pant as he claimed that the wicket-keeper batter is the most important Test player in the Indian setup right now after Kohli's retirement. He spoke about how Pant played a huge role during India’s famous series win in Australia, especially that stunning knock at the Gabba.
"In my view, Rishabh Pant is the second-best Test cricketer. The work Pant has done in Test cricket is something very few players have done. He is the one who has drawn crowds to stadiums after Kohli," said Sehwag on Cricbuzz.
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"The way he played against Australia, especially in the series win, was outstanding, but he’s often underrated and doesn’t get enough credit. His performances were key to India’s success in Australia," he added.
The former Indian opener also mentioned Pant’s unfortunate car accident, saying it slowed down his progress. He believes Pant could’ve been made captain if not for that break.
"He could have been a captain but his accident and injury slowed him down and his Test form hasn’t been the same since his comeback. That is probably why he has been made vice-captain. If he regains his top form, we might see him take over as captain," concluded Sehwag.
"After Virat Kohli, if there's one cricketer who can bring people to the stadium to watch Test cricket, it's Rishabh Pant." - Virendra Sehwag (Cricbuzz) pic.twitter.com/OYQwrJSBuM
— 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧™ (@Rishabhian_17) May 26, 2025
Why does Rishabh Pant bring fans to stadiums?
Pant is not just a regular Test batter. He brings a level of excitement that most don’t. Whether it is wild reverse sweeps or big sixes out of nowhere, fans love watching him because anything can happen when he is at the crease.
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One of his most famous knocks came in 2021- an unbeaten 89 against Australia at the Gabba, which won India the series. Since his debut, he has played 43 Tests and scored over 2900 runs, with six centuries to his name.