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Xtra Time Web Desk: Rishabh Pant's stunning comeback century in India's emphatic 280-run win against Bangladesh in the first Test at Chennai stirred conversations comparing him to the legendary MS Dhoni. However, after India’s dominant victory, Pant was quick to address these comparisons.

Having been absent from Test cricket for over 650 days following a serious car accident in December 2022, Pant’s return was highly anticipated. His last Test match was also against Bangladesh before the injury forced him off the field. Despite a promising half-century in a recent Duleep Trophy match, doubts loomed over his readiness. Pant silenced his critics with a superb 109 in the second innings, aiding India in setting a formidable target of 515 runs.

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Pant’s sixth Test century equaled Dhoni's record for the most hundreds by an Indian wicketkeeper in the format, sparking comparisons on social media. However, Pant made it clear that he is focused on being himself rather than trying to emulate Dhoni.

"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," Pant said post-match.

Pant's innings displayed his adaptability. After a defensive start, advice from Rohit Sharma prompted him to shift gears into an aggressive mode, hammering boundaries.

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Question, "Why are you playing so fast, Rishabh?"

Rishabh Pant “jab lunch pe aaye the tab. Rohit bhai ne bola ki '1 ghanta aur khelenge, jisko jo banana hai bana lo.' Toh mera mindset change ho gaya ki jaldi-jaldi bana leta hoon." ????????pic.twitter.com/yThnTX0kyW

— ` (@cutxpull45) September 22, 2024

"When we went to Lunch, there was talk about a declaration. Rohit Sharma told us he'd give us an hour after the break," Pant revealed, showcasing his determination to capitalize on the opportunity.

Pant’s remarkable knock not only marked his triumphant return to Test cricket but also reaffirmed his place as one of India's most dynamic wicketkeeper-batsmen, carving his own path amidst inevitable comparisons.