Rishabh Pant achieves a rare feat matched by only one other wicketkeeper in cricket history—leaving legends like Gilchrist, AB de Villiers, McCullum, and Sangakkara far behind.

In a performance that will go down in history, Rishabh Pant became the first Indian cricketer to score hundreds in both innings of a Test match played in England at Headingley. On Day 4, the wicketkeeper-batter was in outstanding form, combining style and maturity to lead India to victory with a lead that soared over 250 runs thanks to his partnership with KL Rahul.

Having already dazzled with a 134 in the first innings, Pant brought up his second hundred of the match in style—reaching the milestone in 130 balls. He struck 13 boundaries and two sixes, once again showing why he's one of the most exciting batters in world cricket today. The Indian dressing room stood and applauded, clearly aware of the history unfolding.

What stood out, though, was Pant’s controlled approach. Now vice-captain of the Test side, he showed responsibility with the bat. Early in his innings, after a couple of risky shots, he pulled himself back, knuckled down during a tricky pre-lunch phase, and played with composure. But once he sensed an opening in the second session, he went after the bowlers with trademark aggression—keeping the scoreboard ticking and the pressure squarely on England.

Pant was in prestigious company because of his double centuries. He joined Zimbabwe's Andy Flower, who scored 142 and 199\* against South Africa in 2001, as the only other wicketkeeper in Test history to accomplish the feat.

He’s now also one of only seven Indian batters to score centuries in both innings of a Test match—a group that includes legends like Sunil Gavaskar (who did it three times) and Rahul Dravid (twice).

Indians with hundreds in both innings of a Test:

* Vijay Hazare

* Sunil Gavaskar (3 times)

* Rahul Dravid (2 times)

* Virat Kohli

* Ajinkya Rahane

* Rohit Sharma

* Rishabh Pant

Despite the fireworks, Pant’s knock had moments of vulnerability. At one point, he nearly got out trying to play an audacious scoop shot and could be seen visibly frustrated, talking to himself and trying to regain focus. His partner at the crease, KL Rahul, offered a few calm words, reminding him to choose the right moments to attack.

Pant slowed, not in panic but with calmness as he approached his hundred. He patiently waited for the proper ball at 98 and eventually reached the milestone with grace, without any nervousness or theatricality, simply a silent acknowledgement of a job well done. Even though Pant did not perform his customary somersault to commemorate the milestone, the Leeds crowd erupted in celebration, knowing they were fortunate to witness it.

It was a day to remember—for Pant, for Indian cricket, and for everyone lucky enough to be watching.