India’s flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is once again in the spotlight—not just for his remarkable batting, but for his trademark front flip celebration. During the Leeds Test against England, Pant etched his name in history by scoring centuries in both innings, becoming only the second wicketkeeper after Andy Flower to achieve this rare double. His celebration after the first century—a bold front flip following a six—electrified the Headingley crowd and quickly went viral on social media.
However, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has advised Pant to dial it down, especially in the context of Test cricket’s physical demands. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin remarked, “I have only one request—please don’t do that front flip. In Tests, your body gets tired, unlike in the IPL where you may not face more than 50-60 balls. He’s a genuine top batter in the Indian side. He doesn’t need to prove anything.”
Ashwin’s concern lies in the toll that Test cricket can take on a player’s body, particularly over five intense days of play. While fans hoped for a repeat of the somersault—and even cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar nudged him—Pant chose a different celebration in the second innings, heeding the caution.
Pant later shared the inspiration behind his celebration in a chat with teammate Cheteshwar Pujara. “I trained in gymnastics during school and have done somersaults since childhood,” he said. “Even after my accident, I worked hard to get back to it.” Though he had other celebrations in mind, he admitted the flip best represented his spirit.
Pant’s fearless batting and flair continue to entertain fans worldwide, but Ashwin’s advice is a timely reminder about the fine line between showmanship and safeguarding one’s career.