IND vs ENG: 'Knee in a mess, scars all over face' - Former India coach recalls Rishabh Pant's horrific car accident

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has lauded Rishabh Pant's stunning innings of 134 runs off 178 balls against England in the first Test at Leeds on June 22. Pant's innings, which included 12 fours and six sixes, was marked by unconventional shots and a celebratory somersault upon reaching his century.

Pant celebrates his century with a jubilant leap.

The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter's seventh Test century, his second since recovering from a severe car crash in late 2022, showcased his unique batting style. This included a 'falling paddle' shot, and reaching his century with a one-handed six over mid-wicket off spinner Shoaib Bashir.

"Outrageous. He plays the numbers game beautifully, plays the way he wants. He will block for a bit and then shift gears," Shastri said on Sky Sports.

"He has his own computer and only he knows how it works. That's his USP. That's what puts bowlers under pressure and makes him box office, a real entertainer and a match winner," Shastri elaborated, emphasizing Pant's unconventional approach.

Shastri reflected on Pant's arduous recovery from the life-threatening accident, highlighting the significance of his celebratory somersault. "That's why there was that celebration. Thanking the man upstairs for giving him the opportunity."

"I think his recovery from that accident had a lot to do with the frame of his body and being mid-20s. When I saw him in hospital, it wasn't a pretty sight. Knee in a mess, scars all over the face, bruises all over the body," Shastri added, detailing the extent of Pant's injuries.

Ian Ward, commentating for Sky Sports, echoed Shastri's sentiments, stating, "This fella is box office. One of the great entertainers and one of the best hundred celebrations I have seen. He's a character, this boy."

The innings also impressed Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who had previously criticized Pant's shot selection during the Australia series. After witnessing Pant's performance in Leeds, Gavaskar repeatedly exclaimed "superb, superb, superb."

The unorthodox batter's performance at Headingley demonstrated his resilience, recovery, and return to form, captivating the crowd with his distinctive batting style and memorable celebration.