BGT: Gavaskar's Crucial Tip for Pant - 'Honor the Initial Half Hour...'
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New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) Renowned cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has shared important guidance for Rishabh Pant as the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series approaches, stating that the wicketkeeper-batter needs to acknowledge the conditions first before reverting to his instinctive style of play.
Pant's performance in the three Tests has been disappointing, accumulating only 96 runs in five innings at an average of 19.20, with a top score of 37.
Gavaskar remarked, "What Rishabh Pant must do, similar to everyone else, is to respect the first half hour; take a moment to acclimatize when he steps onto the field, regardless of the situation—unless, of course, India is at 525 for 3; then he can go all out," during an interview on Star Sports.
Gavaskar further pointed out that bowlers like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland have successfully challenged Pant's technique by targeting specific areas. "They angle the ball across. Pat Cummins and even Hazlewood present some challenges; Scott Boland is also a threat as he bowls in that critical area," he added.
Pant’s reputation in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is firmly established following his remarkable innings at The Gabba during the 2020-21 series, where his unbeaten 89 propelled India to a historic victory. However, the 2024-25 series has presented a different challenge for the explosive left-hander.
In contrast, former Australian opener Mathew Hayden believes Pant should embrace his audacious style of play, which could present significant opportunities for him and Team India.
"I have always admired his approach. He has a unique style, and I would like to see him capitalize on that. He should step into situations where, as I said earlier, runs are plentiful; this is an ideal scenario not just for him but also for Team India," Hayden commented.
"Much like Rohit Sharma, we haven't witnessed much counter-attacking from Rishabh, but he should approach these conditions without fear. I believe that in the absence of fear lies a tremendous opportunity for both Rishabh and Team India," Hayden concluded.
The fourth Test, commencing on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, is pivotal for both sides as they strive to seize the lead in the closely contested five-match series, currently tied at 1-1.
