Is Pant's Struggle Due to His Focus on Playing Behind?
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Synopsis
Former batting coach Sanjay Bangar critiques Rishabh Pant's recent performance in white-ball cricket, attributing his struggles to a misguided shot selection. While Pant is a stellar Test player, he needs to return to basics to rediscover his scoring ability. This article explores the insights from experts on Pant's current form and what he can do to improve.
Key Takeaways
- Pant's shot selection needs refinement.
- Focus on scoring down the ground is essential.
- Visible frustration can impact performance.
- Returning to basics may help improve form.
- Composure as a captain is crucial.
New Delhi, May 10 (NationPress) Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar highlighted that Rishabh Pant's recent struggles in the white-ball format stem from his inclination to play behind the stumps rather than focusing on his strength—scoring down the ground.
Pant has had a disappointing IPL 2025 season, accumulating only 128 runs in 11 matches, with just one half-century. His underwhelming performance for the Lucknow Super Giants has often led to visible frustration on the field.
Bangar observed that Pant's challenges are primarily due to his shot selection, where he attempts unconventional shots behind the stumps, resulting in early dismissals during IPL 2025.
"It's essential to recognize that he is still in the process of fully grasping the nuances of white-ball cricket—both in ODIs and T20s. He is undoubtedly a remarkable Test player, but this season, I've noted he has been dismissed several times while trying to play shots behind the wicket," Bangar mentioned on Star Sports.
"If you analyze Pant's best innings, where does he score? Through cover drives, stepping down the track to target the sightscreen or going over midwicket. This season, however, he has been attempting reverse sweeps and fine shots. As a batsman, he seems to have lost his clarity and forgotten that his optimal performance occurs when he aims to score down the ground," Bangar explained.
In LSG's recent match against the Punjab Kings, Pant entered at No. 4 after two early wickets but could only muster 18 runs off 17 balls while chasing a target of 237. LSG ultimately lost by 37 runs and currently sits seventh on the points table, with 10 points from 11 matches.
"When you focus on scoring down the ground, it opens up other areas for you. Conversely, if you're only targeting behind, you're often late and not well-positioned to play effectively," the former Indian player concluded.
Previously, former India player Navjot Singh Sidhu stated that Pant must return to basics and refine his shot selection.
"Rishabh Pant's main issue is his shot selection. You can't always hit your way out of a slump. Perhaps the weight of his own reputation is hindering his ability to remain relaxed, which is evident in his frustration. As a captain, he often loses his composure, giving the opposition an advantage. Look at Dhoni—calm and composed, revealing nothing. Pant needs to adjust his mindset, particularly around shot selection and return to fundamentals," Sidhu remarked on JioHotstar.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach Rishabh Pant's performance issues with a balanced perspective. While his potential is clear, the ongoing struggles in white-ball formats highlight the need for focused adjustments. The emphasis should be on developing a reliable shot selection strategy and maintaining composure on and off the field, mirroring the success of past legends.
NationPress
20/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main reasons for Rishabh Pant's struggles?
Rishabh Pant's struggles are primarily attributed to poor shot selection and an inclination to play unorthodox shots behind the stumps, rather than focusing on his strengths down the ground.
How has his performance in IPL 2025 been?
In IPL 2025, Rishabh Pant has scored only 128 runs in 11 matches, with one half-century, indicating a significant dip in form.
What advice did Sanjay Bangar give to Pant?
Sanjay Bangar advised that Pant must recognize his strengths and focus on scoring down the ground to improve his performance.
What did Navjot Singh Sidhu suggest for Pant?
Navjot Singh Sidhu emphasized that Pant should return to basics and refine his shot selection to regain his form.
Where do the Lucknow Super Giants currently stand in the IPL?
The Lucknow Super Giants are currently placed seventh on the points table with 10 points from 11 matches.
