Ravichandran Ashwin on Rishabh Pant: Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin praised star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, stating that “his defence is the best in world cricket.” Pant’s performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia had been underwhelming until the fourth Test. He drew criticism for playing reckless shots and losing his wicket, but in the final match, he was praised for showcasing two contrasting styles of cricket.
In the last match, Pant scored 40 runs off 98 balls, displaying remarkable patience, and then followed it up with an explosive 61 runs off 33 balls. During the fourth Test in Melbourne, while chasing a target of 340 runs, Pant played a composed innings of 30 runs off 104 balls, demonstrating exceptional resilience and patience at the crease.
Ashwin Praises Pant’s Defense
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin shared high praise for Rishabh Pant, stating that the wicketkeeper-batsman possesses one of the best defences in world cricket. Ashwin highlighted Pant’s ability to defend without getting dismissed, even during practice sessions.
The former all-rounder elaborated, saying, “Pant rarely gets out while playing defence. He has one of the best defences in world cricket. Defence has become a challenging aspect, but he excels with soft hands. I have bowled to him extensively in the nets; he doesn’t get out, edge the ball, or get dismissed leg-before-wicket. His defence is remarkable. I have often conveyed this to him. However, there’s an opinion that he plays too many shots and struggles in Test cricket.” I will change my name if someone shows me a clip of Rishabh Pant getting out while defence 10 times. Rishabh Pant’s defence is one of the best defence in the World”. Ashwin added.
Rishabh has the best defense. I bowled to many lefties , he rarely gets edge even in the nets – Aswin
— Riseup Pant (@riseup_pant17) January 10, 2025
Pant’s Performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Rishabh Pant scored 255 runs in five matches and nine innings during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, including one half-century. He averaged 28.33 with a strike rate of 59.02, finishing as the sixth-highest run-scorer of the series.
Ravi Ashwin said – “I will change my name if someone shows me a clip of Rishabh Pant getting out while defence 10 times. Rishabh Pant’s defence is one of the Best defence in the World”. (On Ashwin YT). pic.twitter.com/zCgHPWqr9Y
— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) January 10, 2025
India Faces Defeat and Exits World Test Championship Race
India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-3, with the final defeat coming against Australia by six wickets in the fifth Test in Sydney. Setting a target of 162, India faltered in their bowling efforts, ultimately losing the series. With this result, India is officially out of the race for the ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to take place at Lord’s in June next year. Australia and South Africa have secured their spots in the championship match.