The recently-concluded Chennai Test against Bangladesh marked Rishabh Pant's first red-ball match for India since his horrific car accident in December 2022, and the southpaw made his presence felt immediately.

While Rishabh scored 39 runs in the first innings, he slammed 109 off 128 balls (13 fours and 4 sixes) in the second essay.

It was Pant’s sixth century in the longest format as he equalled the legendary MS Dhoni for most tons by an Indian wicketkeeper in Test cricket.

Reflecting on his century in the first Test against Bangladesh, former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja said that Rishabh Pant does not play for the numbers but rather wants to help his team.

“He showed yesterday (Saturday) as well that numbers don’t matter to him. His approach remained the same after scoring a century as well. He could have gotten out earlier as well, a catch was dropped, he was a little lucky, and only brave people get the luck,” Jadeja said during a discussion on Colors Cineplex.

“I feel the doubts were only in our minds or the fans’ minds because when you love someone, you think something wrong should not happen. He is a positive guy. Now that he has got a start like this, he will only get better,” he added.

The swashbuckling left-hander is expected to play a key role in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. He was instrumental in India’s last two Test series wins Down Under.

Prior to the Australia tour, India will play one more Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur which will be followed by a three-match Test series against New Zealand at home.

According to Jadeja, Pant is yet to be tested when it comes to playing that match-saving role. But he believes the wicketkeeper-batter has the necessary skills to be that man for India.

“He has not yet got to bat where you needed him a lot when you couldn’t have saved the game without him. His rarity is that he is always able to perform on the day when it’s needed the most. When it’s required, this rare gem will shine even more,” Jadeja remarked.