Rishabh Pant: No Comparison Between Dhoni and Me

In a World Cup year, a handful of Indian batsmen are jockeying for a place in the team that heads to England.

- Pooja Biraia Jaiswal

The youngest among them is Rishabh Pant. Just months into his international career, he is staking his claim to be the team's regular wicketkeeper—replacing the mighty M.S. Dhoni. Though the team management might go with Dhoni's experience, there just could be a chance for Pant to play as a pure batsman. And, as the second T20 against New Zealand on February 8 showed, the two bat well together. They finished the match with more than an over to go.

In an interview with THE WEEK, Pant says he idolised Dhoni growing up and that the senior keeper has helped him a lot, especially in the shorter formats. Pant also talks about his performances in England and Australia, the support of his family and his ultimate goal in international cricket. Excerpts from an interview:

At 21, you have played in a Test series in Australia, where you did well with both bat and gloves, and also became the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a century against Australia in Australia. Do you feel like a celebrity now?

Yes, I feel absolutely great. I had always dreamt of playing at this level when I was a child, just learning the ropes. But this is not the time for me to focus on my feelings. There will be many more occasions to celebrate. I have a long way to go before I reach the goal that I have set for myself. My career has only just begun and the goal is still far, far away.

What is the goal?

To play for India in all three formats for as long as I want to.

For as long as you want to?

Absolutely. If I keep performing the way I am, then hopefully I can do that. There is no bigger kick than playing for the country and making it proud.

You were named the ICC's emerging player of 2018. How did that feel?

Excellent! To be rewarded for the efforts you put in is a great feeling.