What Interesting Decisions Can We Expect from Pant as Captain?
Synopsis
In the lead-up to the second Test against South Africa, Washington Sundar shares insights on Rishabh Pant's captaincy instincts. Discover how Pant's unique approach can influence the game and the challenges the Indian team faces in Guwahati.
Key Takeaways
Rishabh Pant is India's 38th Test captain.
Pant is the second wicketkeeper-batter to lead the team in Tests.
Washington Sundar emphasizes the importance of Pant's instincts in captaincy.
India must win in Guwahati to level the series.
Preparations have been focused on adapting to different conditions.
Guwahati, Nov 22 (NationPress) India’s off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar has expressed confidence that Rishabh Pant will trust his instincts as he takes on the role of captain in the second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
Pant is set to become India’s 38th Test captain and is only the second wicketkeeper-batter, following MS Dhoni, to lead the team in the longest format of the game. Interestingly, this will be Pant's first match as Test skipper at the same venue where he made his ODI debut in 2018.
He has been given the captaincy after regular skipper Shubman Gill was sidelined due to a neck injury. “He’s distinct as a captain. He’s someone who relies on his instincts, and we all recognize how he approaches his game, especially while batting. So, I think we can anticipate significant decisions from his instincts, and I hope to see him make some intriguing choices as well,” Sundar stated to broadcasters before the match.
The first Test in Guwahati commenced at 9 AM, earlier than the usual 9:30 AM start in India. The first session will break for tea, limited to 20 minutes, followed by a 40-minute lunch start at 1:40 PM.
Reflecting on the preparations leading up to the Guwahati Test, especially after their 30-run defeat in Kolkata, Sundar mentioned, “We had a good preparation at Eden Gardens right after the last game and then came over here for a couple of days.”
“The conditions here are somewhat different, like the early morning starts. We need to gather as much information as we can in the first couple of days, making it a more exciting experience.”
India must secure a victory in Guwahati to level the series and avert a second consecutive series loss. Sundar emphasized that the team is ready to face this challenge. “That’s the charm of Test cricket here. You will face challenges no matter what.”
“Even if you perform well in the series, the challenge will be present every single day of the game. We all feel prepared and strong, especially when playing at home.”
Sundar, who batted at number three in Kolkata with scores of 29 and 31, remarked that he fully embraces the opportunity to bat in this position.
“It’s all about managing my time throughout the day. Since it’s not a lengthy series, I have sufficient time to focus on batting, bowling, and fielding. I see batting at number three, especially for the Indian cricket team, as a fantastic opportunity that I would seize without hesitation.”
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that Rishabh Pant's instinctual leadership style could significantly impact the Indian team's performance. The upcoming match against South Africa not only serves as a test of skill but also a testament to the team's resilience. As they seek to level the series, all eyes will be on Pant as he navigates the challenges of captaincy in front of a home crowd.
NationPress
7 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rishabh Pant?
Rishabh Pant is an Indian cricketer and the current captain of the Indian Test cricket team.
Why is the second Test significant?
The second Test is crucial for India as they need to win to level the two-match series against South Africa.
Where is the second Test being held?
The second Test is being held at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
What are Washington Sundar's views on Pant's captaincy?
Washington Sundar believes that Pant will rely on his instincts for making decisions as captain.
What was the outcome of the first Test?
India lost the first Test in Kolkata by 30 runs.
