Rishabh Pant has been on a never-before-high stage in his career. 2019 seems to be a fruitful year for him. Not only the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman scored his second Test hundred, but he rose in the latest ICC Test Rankings for the batsmen. Meanwhile, the chief selector, MSK Prasad has expressed his happiness over Pant’s form. He further said the Delhi lad remains in contention for the 2019 World Cup.
Pant’s exploits help him gain prominence
Rishabh Pant made his Test debut last year in England, and in nine games played so far, the left-hander has hit two centuries; one at the Oval and one in Sydney. Of late, his recent century displayed him as a fearsome batsman on such a stage. Though he didn’t hit top gear in six innings on the Australia tour, Pant scored an unbeaten 159 in the first innings in Sydney.
Impressed with his attitude and shot selection, Australia veteran, Adam Gilchrist lavished praises on him. He said Pant has all the elements to become a Test great. Meanwhile, a few of the legends also talked highly of the youngster.
However, Prasad, speaking to India Today, said Rishabh is very much floating in World Cup plans for them. The former India cricketer further added the management is following everyone’s workload and is happy with the progress.
“There is absolutely no doubt that he is among one of those wicketkeepers (in contention for the World Cup). All the three shortlisted keepers are doing well. He is definitely part of our World Cup plans. It’s a part of the workload management we are following,” Prasad told India Today.
“You have seen how many players we are resting these days. This kid has played the T20s and the four high-intensity Tests. The body also takes a wear and tear. He is having a few niggles, he needs to recover. I am sure he will come back much stronger.”
However, India will now face Australia in three-match ODI’s, which begins on January 12th in Sydney.