Rishabh Pant isn’t just known for smashing centuries—he’s known for how he celebrates them. Rishabh Pant’s celebration “a mid-air somersault” has become one of the most unforgettable sights in modern cricket. It’s arguably the most eye-catching signature celebration in cricket today. But during the recent Headingley Test against England, fans noticed something strange. After scoring his second century in the match, Pant didn’t flip. No cartwheel, no roll—just a simple gesture. Why did he skip Rishabh Pant’s somersault this time? As it turns out, there’s a compelling story behind the celebration, and an even bigger one behind its absence.

Why Pant Flips in the First Place?

Let’s rewind. That dazzling somersault isn’t just a showboating trick; it’s rooted in Pant’s childhood. In an interview with Sony Sports, he revealed that he trained in gymnastics during his school years. “I had three celebrations in mind,” he said. “One was to just raise the bat. But then I thought, why not do something that’s mine? Something fun.” The somersault became that signature. A mix of athleticism, flair, and personality—it represented everything Pant brings to the field. He’s not just about runs; he’s about moments.

And it’s worked. From Delhi Capitals to the Indian Test team, Pant’s celebration has turned into an identity. Fans love it. Broadcasters wait for it. Even his teammates laugh and cheer when it happens. It’s not just a flip—it’s Rishabh Pant’s somersault, a moment that says, “I’m here, and I did it my way.” It’s arguably an iconic signature celebration in cricket, loved for its spontaneity and style.

Breaking News:

Cricketer Rishabh Pant met with an accident on Delhi – Dehradun highway near Roorkee Border

His car collided with a divider & caught fire. He’s been admitted to a hospital where he is being treated for injuries in head, back & feet but is in a stable condition. pic.twitter.com/bxwZ1ONH1w

— MJ (@MJ_007Club) December 30, 2022

A Crash That Nearly Ended It All

But behind the theatrics is a sobering chapter. In December 2022, Pant was involved in a life-threatening car accident while driving to Roorkee. The crash left him with multiple injuries, including serious ligament damage in his right knee. He underwent major surgery under renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, who later admitted he was astonished to see Pant flipping again. “It’s a well-practiced move, sure—but unnecessary,” Dr. Pardiwala said in an interview.

Rishabh Pant has suffered a serious car accident early morning. Admitted in a Roorkee hospital. pic.twitter.com/QQvHuanDCF

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) December 30, 2022

Pant’s rehabilitation took over a year. During this period, he was out of all forms of cricket and faced a steep road to recovery. The National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru became his second home. And while the accident made him more cautious, it also matured him. As Dr. Pardiwala noted, “He’s philosophical now. That kind of near-death experience changes you. He values life differently.”

Rishabh Pant bro risked all his aura on this celebration. 😭 pic.twitter.com/eJ5wPueZOk

— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) May 27, 2025

The Last Time We Saw the Flip

The most recent time Pant flipped? It happened just weeks ago during an IPL 2025 match for the Lucknow Super Giants. And again during the first innings at Headingley. When he reached his century in style—launching a six off England’s Shoaib Bashir while on 99, he followed it up with the iconic somersault. Helmet off, gloves tossed, full flip—it was vintage Pant. The crowd went wild. Even Sunil Gavaskar, who was in the commentary box, couldn’t hide his excitement.

Rishabh Pant, Leeds 2025

(7/7) pic.twitter.com/kBpwzWF192

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 26, 2025

Pant’s celebration wasn’t just about flair—it was symbolic. After everything he’d been through, the flip felt like a victory over adversity. It was more than just athleticism—it was a statement. “I’m back.” And once again, Rishabh Pant’s celebration reminded fans why he’s one of the most charismatic players in the game.

So… Why Didn’t He Do It Again?

But then came the second innings. Another stunning century. More applause. Gavaskar, watching from the stands, even encouraged him to do the flip again. But this time, Pant chose differently. He mimicked footballer Dele Alli’s famous hand gesture instead. It was playful, but noticeably subdued. So what changed? One major factor might be Ravichandran Ashwin’s advice.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin publicly urged Pant to avoid the somersault celebration, especially in Test cricket. “Your body’s exhausted in Tests. It’s not like T20s where you play 50 balls max. He’s already a top batter in the lineup—he has nothing to prove,” Ashwin said. And he has a point. Test cricket is demanding—physically and mentally. With Pant still managing a surgically repaired knee and carrying the burden of being India’s lead wicketkeeper and middle-order batter, conserving his body might be a smart move.

Related Article：Pant Shuts the Doubters Up with Hundreds in Both Innings of a Test Match in England

What Does This All Mean?

Rishabh Pant’s celebration may have been missing in recent times, but its absence told a different kind of story. He’s still the fearless stroke-maker we know, but he’s evolving. Rishabh Pant’s somersault was once his way of grabbing attention. Now, he’s commanding it with his bat alone. That doesn’t mean the flip is gone forever—he’s even promised Gavaskar he might bring it back later in the series. For now, Pant seems focused on staying fit, staying smart, and making sure he’s around for the long haul.