Former legendary wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist believes India’s rookie wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant should get a longer run in the Indian team. Pant who is well known for his pyrotechnics has shown the experience to do well for India. The Delhi based youngster is currently plying on his trade in the ongoing Test series against England.
In fact, Pant has done well behind the stumps, however, he has had a tough time as Indian fast bowlers have veered off the track in their lines. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant had a good tour of England with India A side. Subsequently, he received his chance for the senior team.
Pant has shown the experience to do well.
Furthermore, Pant has proven his mettle in the Indian Premier League as he was the second highest run-getter in the 2018 season. The combative batsman scored 684 runs for Delhi Daredevils.
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“He looks a very exciting cricketer. He’s a Quinton de Kock type player in the way he bats and keeps. And we see a number of exciting cricketers come through the IPL. He’s another one who’s produced the goods and he’s been selected for India. So, it’s an exciting time for him. And, the challenge will be to perform at that level,” said the Australian great.
Pant will need to find the right balance in his batting.
“It’s a challenging situation for any team. When Shane Warne finished, he left a big hole in the team. Same [in India] when the Big Four departed. And, MS Dhoni is as good a player as any in the ‘keeper-batsman position… plus he captained as well. So, it might take chopping and changing to find that player [who can replace him].
Therefore, Gilchrist believes it is imperative for the Indian selectors to give a longer run to Rishabh Pant. Consequently, they can churn out the best from him.
So, the selectors need to allow players [time] to settle into the top level. If you churn through them too quickly, it can leave a psychological scar on players’ minds and that might limit their efforts in being able to produce their best. So, hopefully Pant gets a nice run at it. Obviously, there’s an Australian tour up for grabs. I am sure India – even on the back of the disappointments and frustrations of England – certainly have an opportunity to make an impression. I think they’d enjoy batting in Australia. And the conditions could make way for a hard-fought Test series,” he said.
In fact, Rishabh Pant is expected to be on board on the tour of Australia. India’s first choice wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha has been ruled out for four months. Therefore, it is a fine opportunity for Pant to grab his chance.