Rishabh Pant Overtakes MS Dhoni, Becomes India’s Top Wicketkeeper Run-Scorer in Away Tests

Rishabh Pant has added another major milestone to his Test career, moving past MS Dhoni to become India’s highest run-scorer as a designated wicketkeeper in away or neutral Test matches.

Pant reached 2,501 runs in the category during India’s second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Monday, narrowly moving ahead of Dhoni’s previous tally of 2,496 runs. At the time of the milestone, Pant was averaging 41.68.

The achievement came during a challenging Test for Pant, who had been forced to leave the field after suffering an injury on the opening day.

Pant Moves Ahead of Dhoni in Elite List

Pant now sits at the top of the list of Indian wicketkeepers with the most runs in away or neutral Tests.

The leading run-scorers in the category are:

• Rishabh Pant – 2,501 runs
• MS Dhoni – 2,496 runs
• Farokh Engineer – 1,209 runs
• Syed Kirmani – 1,109 runs
• Kiran More – 901 runs

Pant's average of 41.68 at the time of the record also underlines his consistency in overseas conditions.

Pant Suffers Injury Scare on Day 1

The record-breaking moment followed an injury scare for the Indian wicketkeeper-batter.

During the third session on the opening day in Colombo, Sri Lanka fast bowler Lahiru Kumara delivered a short ball that Pant attempted to pull behind square. He missed the shot and was struck on his left arm.

Pant was visibly uncomfortable and received treatment from the Indian team's physiotherapist. An ice pack was initially applied before his arm was strapped.

After making just 3 runs from 15 deliveries, Pant left the field with the physiotherapist during the 58th over of India's innings.

Pant Returns Despite the Blow

Concerns over Pant's availability eased when he returned to bat on the second day of the Test.

He came back to the crease after Asitha Fernando dismissed Saransh Jain for six, joining Dhruv Jurel as India looked to strengthen its position in the innings.

Sri Lanka's fast bowlers continued to challenge Pant with short-pitched deliveries, and he absorbed further blows around the shoulder area. Despite the discomfort, Pant stayed at the crease and continued attacking when opportunities arose.

Pant and Jurel then put together an important partnership to help India rebuild its innings. Their stand had reached 47 runs by the drinks break in the phase described in the report.

Another Milestone in Pant's Test Career

Pant's latest record adds to his growing reputation as one of India's most productive wicketkeeper-batters in Test cricket.

Surpassing Dhoni in overseas and neutral Tests is particularly significant given Dhoni's long and successful career behind the stumps for India.

Pant's ability to continue batting after his injury scare and immediately make an impact has further highlighted his resilience during the Colombo Test.