'It's very unacceptable' - Dinesh Karthik quashes Rishabh Pant's comparison with MS Dhoni

Rishabh Pant was viewed as the ultimate successor for MS Dhoni when the veteran decided to hang his boots. The comparisons started when people started drawing parallels between Pant and Dhoni’s batting style. The southpaw recently equalled the former India captain’s record for the most number of centuries by a wicketkeeper for India in Tests. 

Pant brought his sixth Test ton in some style as several fans termed him the greatest Indian wicketkeeper. Amidst all the hullabaloo, former India wicketkeeper, Dinesh Karthik has disregarded the common lines and held Dhoni higher in the impact as wicketkeeper-batter in Indian cricket. While highlighting Dhoni’s contribution as captain, Karthik also added that the veteran scored when it mattered the most for the team. 

"It's very unacceptable to say that he's played 34 Tests and he's already India's greatest wicketkeeper batter. Let's take time, let's not jump to conclusions but definitely he's on course for sure and he will finish as India's greatest ever wicketkeeper," said Karthik as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Also Read: India's main goal should be to prioritize Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant's fitness: Ian Chappell

"Don't discount Dhoni's credentials as a wicketkeeper as well. He not only kept brilliantly, batted and scored runs when it mattered very very well for India but also he led India to a World Test Championship mace which is becoming number 1. So you got to give all that weightage as well when you speak about a player all round," he added.

I don't focus on what's being said: Pant

Coincidentally, Pant’s ton against Bangladesh came in Chennai, the home ground of Dhoni in IPL. The 26-year-old is known for his fearless batting and is seen continuing the same drill. After India won the first Test at Chepauk, Pant while addressing his experience playing in Chennai also added that he does not pay heed to the outside world and focuses on his game. 

"This is CSK's home ground. Mahi bhai has played a lot of cricket here. But, for me, like I have said before, I want to be myself. I don't focus on what's being said or what's happening around me. I keep things simple and focus on giving my best. The atmosphere here was amazing, and I really enjoyed it," said Pant.