Former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman Ian Smith is highly impressed with Rishabh Pant. "We are going to see a lot of Pant. It's not about just playing the game but living it. Maybe, he has to learn a few things and they [team management] are teaching him the virtues of patience," said Ian Smith, who has been a popular television commentator for several years now.

Despite a promising start in the first innings at Wellington, the Delhi wicketkeeper sacrificed his wicket (was run out on 19) for senior Ajinkya Rahane after a miscommunication. In the second innings, Pant's cameo (25 off 44 balls, 4x4) saved India the ignominy of an innings defeat. "The name of Rishabh Pant will be bigger in Indian cricket. Mark my words," said Smith.