Joe Root came up with some interesting remarks about Rishabh Pant before the start of the third test between India and England.
The English skipper was asked about how he thinks a player like Pant would affect his team chances. All the international teams now are wary of Rishabh Pant’s swashbuckling way of batting which can turn the match within a session of a test match.
Root’s views on Pant
While replying to the query of the reporter, Root said “He is a fine player. He plays some extraordinary shots and makes life difficult for bowlers. They need to think of ways by which Pant can be kept quiet. Rishabh is extremely talented, but will always give you the chance”(to dismiss him).
Root was obviously referring to Pant’s quick run scoring method of batting which can work both ways. The method can get fetch him a 50 of just 25 balls while on some other days, he can be dismissed for a duck while playing a shot. As they say, it’s like a double edged sword.
It will be fun to learn about the reaction of Pant on this and how will he, reply to Root in the match will be thing to watch out for.
Rishabh Pant’s form
However, when it comes to personal form, Rishabh Pant is in great touch. His heroics in Gabba in the fourth test of Border Gavaskar trophy where he led India to victory is unforgettable. Pant has carried on his form in the ongoing series as well with two thumping half centuries in two test matches.
His imperious form has made the selectors to recall Pant in limited overs format. He has been selected in the upcoming T20 series vs England that will be played over 5 matches.
Pant has received lots of criticism over the years for his batting. He was, publicly scolded by Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar for playing rash and arrogant shots. It was said about him that he plays carelessly when at the most he should be batting in a carefree manner.
The widespread criticism of Pant led to his exclusion from the limited overs team. Also his form fell away while he returned poor scores.
Now Pant is back in form and his inclusion in the limited overs team would come as a boost for him. With form on his side, his confidence must be sky high. Bowlers might better watch out while bowling him to him!
