Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has expressed surprise over Rishabh Pant’s selection for the Sri Lanka Test series, saying the wicketkeeper-batter did not appear to be at his confident best during IPL 2026. Despite his reservations, De Villiers believes representing India could help Pant regain his intensity as the team prepares for the two-match Test assignment in Sri Lanka. Pant, who remains India’s preferred wicketkeeper in the longest format, returned to the squad after missing the ODI series against Afghanistan and England.
AB de Villiers surprised by Rishabh Pant’s Sri Lanka Test series call
Speaking on his YouTube channel, De Villiers said Pant’s inclusion in the Sri Lanka Test series squad came as a surprise because the left-hander looked low on confidence during the recent IPL season.
The former Proteas skipper pointed out that Pant’s fitness and mental readiness would be key factors heading into the series. However, he made it clear that he continues to rate the Indian wicketkeeper highly and expects him to raise his game in national colours.
Pant last featured in India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in June, where he scored a fluent 81 in the first innings. That performance helped secure his place in the Sri Lanka Test series squad announced by the BCCI.
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De Villiers backs Pant to rediscover his best
While discussing the Sri Lanka Test series, De Villiers said international cricket often brings out the best in experienced players who thrive under pressure.
The 28-year-old has established himself as one of India’s most dependable match-winners in Test cricket over the years. His aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of a game remain valuable assets, particularly on challenging overseas tours.
With India expected to rely heavily on experienced performers, Pant is likely to start as the first-choice wicketkeeper in the Rishabh Pant Sri Lanka Test series beginning later this month.
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Saransh Jain earns praise ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
Apart from discussing the Sri Lanka Test series, De Villiers also welcomed the maiden Test call-up of Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain.
The former South African captain praised the 33-year-old’s consistent domestic performances, highlighting his impressive bowling record and useful contributions with the bat. He described Jain as a bowling all-rounder capable of providing captain Shubman Gill with another spin option in Sri Lankan conditions.
India will begin the Sri Lanka Test series in Galle on August 15 before playing the second and final Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club from August 23. The series will also mark India’s first Test tour of Sri Lanka since their 3-0 triumph in 2017.