Parthiv Patel on Rishabh Pant: Rishabh Pant came under fire from former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar due to his unusual shot in the Melbourne Test against Australia. Gavaskar criticized Pant, calling his shot “stupid” and pointing out that Pant lost his wicket at a time when the team needed him the most. In response to this criticism, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel shared his thoughts on the matter.
Parthiv Patel Responds to Criticism of Rishabh Pant’s Shot
Parthiv Patel defended Rishabh Pant’s aggressive batting style after the wicketkeeper-batsman was criticized by Sunil Gavaskar for playing a “stupid shot” during the Melbourne Test against Australia. Pant’s dismissal came after attempting a scoop shot against Scott Boland, which resulted in a top edge caught by Nathan Lyon. Despite the criticism, Parthiv emphasized that Pant’s unorthodox style should not be blamed when it leads to a dismissal, as it has often been part of his successful approach.
Parthiv Patel’s Reaction to Gavaskar’s Criticism
Parthiv Patel responded by pointing out that when Pant plays explosive shots and succeeds, he receives praise. He believes that those who applauded Pant’s attacking strokes in previous matches should not criticize him for the same approach when it doesn’t work out. Patel argued that this is Pant’s style of play, and it has brought India success in the past.
सुनील गावस्कर साहब थोड़े ज्यादा गुस्सा हो गए, माहौल तो ऐसा था कि लग रहा था कि ऋषभ पंत को जाकर कूट देंगे 😂
Rishabh Pant be careful 😬#RishabhPant #SunilGavaskar @RishabhPant17 @LucknowIPL pic.twitter.com/Toe3dgj7db
— Hansraj Yadav (@Hansraj10818102) December 28, 2024
Was Pant’s Shot Suitable for the Situation?
While acknowledging that the shot may not have been the best choice for the situation, Patel defended Pant by stating that this is how he plays, and it has often helped India out of difficult situations. He added that if Pant’s unconventional methods continue to cost India, only then should there be further discussion about his shot selection.
Concerns About Pant and Jadeja’s Running Between the Wickets
Patel also noted that during Pant’s partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, there was an element of restlessness in their running between the wickets, leading to confusion and near run-outs. He highlighted that this discomfort arose because the Australian bowlers were consistently hitting their areas, which put pressure on the Indian batsmen.
Rishabh Pant started taking risk and fell to Boland, failing to deliver once again. His inconsistency leaves India without vital middle-order support in the BGT..a costly miss at a crucial moment, putting India in deep trouble.
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 28, 2024
Parthiv’s Conclusion
Concluding his thoughts, Parthiv said that Pant’s shot was a result of the Australian bowlers’ line and length and that he might have been trying to trouble them by taking the initiative. However, Patel also acknowledged that there were some moments of uncertainty while rotating the strike, especially with the pressure created by the Australian fast bowlers.