Rishabh Pant’s remarkable return to Test cricket has left the cricketing world in awe. After a horrific car crash in December 2022, the wicket-keeper batter has shown immense resilience and determination to bounce back stronger than ever.
In the second innings of the series opener against Bangladesh, Pant scored a century, reminding everyone of his exceptional talent. His heroic performance brought tears to the eyes of many, including fans, pundits, and his peers.
Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram was among those who were deeply moved by Pant’s journey. “Look at Pant’s performance, the miracle that he has performed by showing he is superhuman by returning from his tragedy,” Akram said on Sportskeeda.
Akram praised Pant’s exemplary shots, particularly his reverse sweep against England pace great James Anderson. However, it was Pant’s mental strength that impressed Akram the most.
“The way he used to play in Test cricket, the way he performed in Australia with the century then,” said Akram. “The way he batted against England, playing a reverse sweep against [James] Anderson in Test cricket, even [Pat] Cummins. He’s special.”
“Especially what he has been through in that horrific accident, coming back from that, how mentally strong must that boy be.”
Akram believes that Pant’s story should be told to children for generations to come, as an inspiration to bounce back from difficult situations. “That’s a story to be told for generations and generations, in my opinion, to motivate young people of the world. You can come back the way Pant did,” said Akram.
“He came back and averaged 40 in the IPL, 446 runs at a strike rate of 155, he’s a miracle kid,” Akram concluded.
Pant’s return to form is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the power of human resilience. His story is an inspiration to all who face adversity, reminding us that anything is possible with determination and support.
