Pant scripts history, surpasses Dhoni to become India's leading wicketkeeper run-scorer in away Tests

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has moved past legendary MS Dhoni in the record books to become India's highest run-scorer as a designated wicketkeeper in away or neutral Tests.

Pant reached the milestone during India's second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Monday. He has scored 2,501 runs at an average of 41.68 (at the time of reporting), edging past Dhoni's tally of 2,496 runs. Farokh Engineer (1,209), Syed Kirmani (1,109) and Kiran More (901) complete the top five.

Pant had retired hurt on the opening day after being struck on his left arm during India's innings on Sunday. The blow came in the third session when Sri Lanka pacer Lahiru Kumara delivered a short ball. Pant attempted to pull it behind square but missed, with the ball hitting his left arm.


The batter was visibly in discomfort and was attended to by the Indian team's physiotherapist. An ice pack was applied initially before his arm was strapped, although the tape was later removed as Pant continued to look uncomfortable.

After making three runs off 15 balls, Pant walked off alongside the physiotherapist in the 58th over.

He returned to bat on Day 2 after Asitha Fernando dismissed Saransh Jain for six, giving Sri Lanka their sixth wicket. Pant joined Dhruv Jurel at the crease as India looked to build towards a competitive total.

Sri Lanka's pacers continued to test Pant with short-pitched deliveries, with the batter taking a couple of blows to the shoulder before the drinks break. Pant, however, showed resilience, while Jurel offered steady support as the duo put together a valuable 47-run partnership by the drinks break.