For many, many years, we didn’t have someone who would ‘talk a little’ behind the stumps. As MS Dhoni had led India for nearly a decade and that how calm and composed he remains on the field; expecting some verbal volleys coming from him could be a mistake. However, with Rishabh Pant entering the scene, things seemed to have changed. The world knew about his batting exploits, but thanks to Tim Paine or even the Australia team in general; we’ve got someone who could do a bit of banter on the field as well.
‘If provoked, I’ll give it back’ – Pant
For those who didn’t know about it, have a look at the Tim Paine-Rishabh Pant banter story. It was during the Perth Test, when Paine while keeping the wickets, sledged Pant and even asked him to babysit. Though the matter didn’t get out of hands, as Rishabh gave it back while he was fielding; an official photo of him grabbing Paine’s children standing besides Tim’s wife broke the internet. The ‘babysitter’ Pant made the best of such banter, as fans from both the countries and even the cricketing globe applauded the gesture.
However, speaking to Cricbuzz, Rishabh Pant said that’s how he is, and it makes him happy. Furthermore, he added, if someone provokes him, he will give it back.
“That’s how I am,” Pant asserts, “If someone provokes me, I’ll give it back. I had a duty to do for my team. But I know the code of conduct. I remember my values. I have sledged and people have actually loved it. That my mother and sister enjoyed it makes me happy,” the India wicketkeeper added.
Pant talks about IPL fame, Virat Kohli and fitness
The India National Cricket Team recently got jolted by the controversy surrounding Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul. Their conduct on the TV show, Koffee with Karan landed them in hot waters. Though the BCCI and CoA have suspended them pending inquiry, Pant talked about handling fame on the other hand. Mentioning how the Indian Premier League (IPL) helped him manage success, Pant said,
“IPL has helped me get used to fame and money. Fame will come as you play more. But you have to know where you need to draw a line. Yes, I can’t go out much now, but you will have to find a way to be the same,” Pant added.
Speaking on Virat Kohli and his fitness, Pant said the norm that the India captain has made fitness routine compulsory for the team members is all but wrong.
“Virat bhaiya has not made anything compulsory.” He says, ‘Follow my routine only if it suits you.’ It’s about knowing yourself and attaining the level of fitness the team expects.”
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant will join the India team for the T20Is against New Zealand.