Rohit Sharma on Rishabh Pant: "He Needs to Figure Out the Right Way to Do Things"

India's captain, Rohit Sharma, noted how Rishabh Pant, the wicketkeeper-batter, plays the game with high risk, after a major loss in the Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Rohit pointed out that, even though Pant has been a major help to the team before, it's important for him to mix his natural way of playing with what the team needs at the moment.

Pant got out in both innings of the game, and people weren't happy with the manner he chose his shots attempting to hit the ball over the fielders off Scott Boland, he was caught by a fielder far away at third in the first innings, only scoring 28 runs from 37 balls then, in the second innings, after hitting a ball that bounced high from Travis Head straight to a fielder far away on the grass, he was out for 30 off 104 balls. When India was trying hard to tie the game, Pant's exit was a major issue because it ended a strong partnership he had going with Yashasvi Jaiswal.

ALSO READ:Yashasvi Jaiswal's Controversial Dismissal Sparks Debate Over DRS in Fourth BGT Test

Rohit's Mixed Reactions to Pant's Approach

Rohit shared with the reporters after the trade, it has only just taken place; we haven't discussed it yet. We are unhappy because we didn't win, and the manner things turned out but what Rishabh Pant really needs to do is understand what's expected of him. Instead of us all pointing it out, he must work out the best approach for himself.

The Indian captain highlighted the duality of Pant's playing style, which has often been a double-edged sword for the team. "In the past, he has given us a lot of success doing what he does. As a captain, there's a kind of mixed reaction to that. Sometimes you want to back that thought of him playing the way he plays, and sometimes when things don't look good, it frustrates everyone. That is what it is, that's the reality," Rohit explained.

He discussed how it's key to understand the industry situation and to weigh the risks. You must deal with winning and losing - keeping it balanced is important. Being a captain, it's tough to converse regarding this material when you've also seen a large amount of success from it. But, thinking through the complexities of the best approach is on him. It also depends on the trade's specific moments. When there's a chance of something going wrong, do you risk it? Or do you make a careful choice so the other team doesn't get a chance to catch up? He must decide that on his own.

Asked about his reaction to how Rishabh Pant was dismissed today, Rohit Sharma goes in-depth on his approach as a captain to Rishabh's game.

A fascinating listen #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GwVbpVjKG8

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 30, 2024

Gavaskar's Criticism

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was among those who criticized Pant's shot selection. Gavaskar was particularly unhappy with Pant's dismissal in the first innings, where he holed out to deep third while attempting a scoop, a risky shot given the match context.

"That was not the shot to play at that time," Gavaskar said during commentary, adding that Pant's approach put unnecessary pressure on the team, especially when they needed stability.

Rishabh Pant is the most overrated player I have ever seen. He doesn't know how to play in Tests, doesn't know how to play in T20s and ODIs as well. The only consistent thing about Rishabh Pant is his Lappebaazi.

~ Sunil Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant getting out again doing his… pic.twitter.com/QwljSAdlie

— Incognito (@Incognito_qfs) December 30, 2024

Pant's Potential and the Way Forward

Rohit acknowledged Pant's talent and match-winning ability, but stressed the need for introspection and adaptability. "I've known Rishabh for a long time, [I] understand his cricket as well. In terms of conversations, no way I can say I've not had a chat with him or he doesn't understand what the team expects. He understands that. But things that he does give him results as well - it's just the fine line between telling him not to do those things or telling him to do those things."

India's collapse on the final day - losing seven wickets in the last session to be bowled out for 155 - highlighted the importance of game awareness and calculated risk-taking, especially from senior players like Pant. While his fearless batting has turned games in India's favor before, the challenge lies in channeling that aggression judiciously.