The cricketing world first recognized Rishabh Pant nearly a decade ago during the Under-19 World Cup, where he smashed a century. This performance led to a lucrative IPL contract, marking the start of his professional career. On October 4th, the explosive batsman celebrated his 28th birthday, continuing to amaze fans.
Pant’s cricket journey, rooted in Delhi, was shaped by his hard work, family’s unwavering support, coaching, and the vital role of a renowned gurudwara. Pant started his career when MS Dhoni dominated cricket. Like Dhoni, Pant aspired to be a wicketkeeper-batsman, but his small-town background presented challenges.
Lacking established cricket infrastructure, Pant’s family sent him to Delhi to chase his dream. He and his mother traveled to Delhi to train under coach Tarak Sinha at the Sonnet Cricket Club.
Without relatives and financial constraints, Pant and his mother found solace at the Gurudwara Moti Bagh Sahib in South Delhi. They resided there, ate at the langar, and practiced. This gurudwara holds a unique significance, as it is connected to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs.
Guru Gobind Singh is believed to have camped there in 1707. Pant, who sought refuge at the gurudwara, exemplified resilience by playing a determined innings against Royal Challengers Bengaluru soon after his father’s passing in 2017, demonstrating remarkable strength and dedication.