Rishabh Pant’s Comeback: Better in Tests or T20s?

After a long and challenging road to recovery following his near-fatal car accident in late 2022, Rishabh Pant's comeback in 2024 was one of the most emotional and inspiring stories in cricket. His return wasn't just about stepping back onto the field—it was about proving that he still belongs at the very top level across formats.

As he made his way back into India's squad, fans and experts alike asked the same question: Rishabh Pant's comeback – better in Tests or T20s? His explosive style suits both formats in different ways, but where has he truly made the most impact since returning?

Let's take a closer look at Pant's performances, mindset, and role across formats to understand where his comeback has truly shined.

The Return: A Test of Grit and Determination

Before diving into the formats, it's important to recognize what Pant overcame. After suffering multiple injuries and a long rehab process, there were doubts about whether he would ever play again—especially as a wicketkeeper-batter. But not only did he return, he returned as India's first-choice keeper in both red-ball and white-ball formats.

His comeback began with the IPL 2024, where he captained Delhi Capitals and looked sharp behind the stumps and aggressive with the bat. Soon after, selectors backed him for India's T20 World Cup squad and Test tours. His dual-format return was nothing short of remarkable.

Rishabh Pant in T20s: The Explosive Finisher

In T20 cricket, Rishabh Pant has always been known for his fearless strokeplay, audacious shot selection, and ability to turn a game in just a few deliveries. His comeback to T20s was marked by several impactful cameos—quickfire 30s and 40s that shifted momentum.

In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Pant was slotted at No. 4 and played crucial roles in India's run to the semifinals. One of his standout performances came against Australia, where he smashed a 28-ball 47 that included two one-handed sixes—proof that the old Pant was well and truly back.

Here's why his T20 comeback has clicked:

• Fitness-Friendly Format: Shorter games allowed Pant to manage his body and workload better.
  
  
  
  
• Explosive Impact: His ability to score 10-12 runs an over consistently is unmatched.
  
  
  
  
• Flexibility: Whether as a floater in the middle overs or a finisher, Pant brings versatility.
  
  
  
  
• Entertainment Factor: His unorthodox style continues to excite fans and bring crowds to their feet.
  
  
  
  

While he hasn't always had big scores, his strike rate and impact-per-ball have made a real difference. In T20s, it's not about how long you stay—it's about how fast you score. And Pant fits that mold perfectly.

Rishabh Pant in Tests: The Match-Winner

On the other side of the spectrum is Rishabh Pant's Test career—arguably where he's made the most lasting legacy so far. Who can forget his match-saving 97 against Australia at SCG in 2021 or the historic century at The Oval against England? His attacking style in red-ball cricket brought a fresh breath of life into India's lower-middle order.

Post-comeback, his performances in the India vs England 2025 Test series have once again proven his class. In the second Test, Pant scored a counter-attacking 89 that shifted the momentum back toward India when the top order had failed. It wasn't just the runs, but the way he batted—with intent, intelligence, and courage—that made the difference.

Why Pant excels in Tests:

• Freedom to Express: With time on his side, Pant picks the right moments to attack.
  
  
  
  
• Counter-Attack Specialist: When India is in trouble, Pant often leads the charge back.
  
  
  
  
• Game-Changer: Few batters can turn a session on its head the way Pant can.
  
  
  
  
• Fearless Behind the Stumps: His chirpy, energetic presence lifts team morale.
  
  
  
  

Moreover, his wicketkeeping has improved significantly post-recovery, with sharper footwork and cleaner glove work—especially against spinners like Ashwin and Jadeja.

Check Out:- England Cricket Team Schedule and Fixtures

Comparing the Impact: Tests vs T20s

While T20s offer more excitement and highlight-reel moments, Pant's comeback in Test cricket feels more complete and substantial. He has shown maturity, tactical awareness, and a refined sense of responsibility—traits that set him apart from most modern-day keepers.

Expert Opinions

Many former cricketers have weighed in on Rishabh Pant's comeback. Sunil Gavaskar praised his game awareness in Tests, saying, “Pant is no longer just a dasher; he's become a Test match-winner.” Meanwhile, Ravi Shastri noted during the T20 World Cup that “Pant's intent in T20s is unmatched. He brings a different energy.”

Both formats bring out different shades of Pant's personality—but it's clear he's evolved as a cricketer post-injury.

The Final Word: So, Where is Pant Better?

So, Rishabh Pant's comeback – better in Tests or T20s?

The answer may depend on what you value more. If it's entertainment, agility, and quick impact, his T20 performances certainly deliver. But if it's influence over the outcome of matches, handling pressure, and rising in tough moments, then his Test comeback stands out as truly remarkable.

Pant has shown that he's not just back — he's better, smarter, and hungrier. And that's good news for Indian cricket across all formats.

Stay tuned to IceCric News for more updates, deep dives, and stories from the world of cricket — where heroes like Rishabh Pant inspire us with every comeback.

Check Out:- Rishabh Pant Career, Stats & Overview