Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on Rishabh Pant following the latter half-century on Day 1 of ENG vs IND 1st Test. The southpaw had been severely criticised for his approach during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with the legend going on the famous “stupid stupid stupid” rant. However, Gavaskar turned into a fan following Pant’s knock in Leeds on Friday.
Gavaskar turns into Pant fanboy
Speaking on Sony Sports, Gavaskar pointed out that Pant liked to use his feet and hit a boundary off the second or third ball as it then allowed him to play freely. He pointed out that the southpaw had adopted a measured approach in Leeds by giving himself some time in the middle and taking on the bowlers when they were worn out.
“It seems like that’s how he plays. When he comes in to bat, on the second or third ball, he often uses his feet and hits a boundary. It makes him feel free and then allows him to play the way he wants. Over here, he’s been measured in his approach—giving himself time out in the middle. But once he’s in and the bowlers start to tire, that’s when he begins to step down the pitch and really attack, hitting big shots, sixes, and boundaries,” said Gavaskar.
Gavaskar further pointed out that Pant was able to go on the aggressive at a later stage because he gave time for himself earlier on in his innings.
“He’s got enormous talent. I’ve seen him score hundreds in South Africa and Australia, and they’ve been absolutely unbelievable. There’s such a great blend of defence and attack—starting with solid defence and then shifting to attack,” he added.
Pant brought up his half-century off 48 balls in the 3rd session of play on Day 1. He stayed unbeaten on 65 runs at stumps, having struck six fours and two sixes so far.
