Wasim Jaffer Warns Rishabh Pant: Improve or Lose Test Spot to Ishan Kishan, Dhruv Jurel

The Rishabh Pant Ishan Kishan competition for India’s wicketkeeper-batter role has intensified, with former opener Wasim Jaffer warning that Pant must raise his game to stay ahead. Jaffer, speaking on his YouTube channel, said Pant needs to improve his Test performances as Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel push for opportunities.

Read more

Jaffer's Warning for Pant

Jaffer believes Pant’s place in the national setup is under discussion, especially after he was dropped from the ODI and T20I teams earlier this year and lost his vice-captaincy. While Pant currently plays as India’s Test wicketkeeper, Jaffer feels the gap is narrowing.

“Pant must improve to stay ahead,” Jaffer said. “This season is important for him—Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and the IPL.”

Kishan Closing the Gap

Jaffer noted that Ishan Kishan has improved significantly and is steadily closing the gap on Pant. “Kishan has taken his game to a higher level,” Jaffer said. “He is consistent across formats and can play purely as a batter, which adds to his value.”

With KL Rahul keeping wickets in ODIs, Jaffer pointed out that Kishan’s ability to play as a specialist batter gives him an edge in selection debates. “There are few wicketkeeper-batters ahead of him,” Jaffer added.

Jurel Adds to the Pressure

Dhruv Jurel also competes for the wicketkeeper-batter spot. Jaffer mentioned that Jurel recently featured as a specialist batter, showing his versatility. “The gap is narrowing, especially with Jurel in the mix,” Jaffer said.

Pant's Match-Winning Ability

Despite the competition, Jaffer praised Pant’s impact. “Pant has played series-defining and match-winning innings,” he said. “He is outstanding in his short career. Rarely have I seen such innings; Adam Gilchrist did it, and few after him.”

Jaffer also pointed out that Pant has been dismissed in the 90s many times, estimating he could have scored 10-15 more centuries. “I cannot put Pant behind others,” Jaffer said, acknowledging his match-winning potential.

What Lies Ahead

Pant’s recent exclusion from ODI and T20I teams and loss of vice-captaincy have raised questions about his future. Jaffer’s advice is clear: use the upcoming Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and IPL to elevate his game. The competition is fierce, and Pant must respond to keep his Test spot.