Despite a string of low scores and not being able to leave an impact with the bat in the ODIs and T20Is, India’s keeper-batter Rishabh Pant continues to be backed to the hilt. In the just-concluded series against New Zealand, Rishabh Pant failed with the bat once again as he could only register the scores of 6, 11, and 15 in the three innings he batted. Earlier, during the T20 World Cup 2022, he scored 27 against South Africa, 3 against Zimbabwe, and 6 in the semifinal against England.
With the likes of Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan waiting in line for their opportunities, there are many who are questioning his position in the Indian squad in the white-ball format of the game.
Meanwhile, India’s stand-in coach VVS Laxman talked about Rishabh Pant’s case and revealed why the long rope that has been handed to the young wicketkeeper batter, despite his string of low scores. Speaking to the official broadcasters of the Ind vs NZ series – Prime Video, before the start of the 3rd ODI match in Christchurch, VVS Laxman said:
“It’s about giving them opportunities and also informing them whenever they aren’t picked. Pant has been doing well at no.4, not too long ago he scored an important century at Old Trafford and it’s important to back him. T20 cricket has given batters more confidence about clearing the grounds no matter how big the outfields are, they also work a lot with the range-hitting,“
Now as the ODI series has also come to an end, VVS Laxman will return to the NCA to resume his role as its chief, while the team will tour Bangladesh for the ODI and Test series. Before India vs New Zealand series, VVS Laxman had filled in for head coach Rahul Dravid in Zimbabwe, Ireland, and during the home series against South Africa last month. Though, the New Zealand series was marred by rain but the former Indian batter mentioned that he has cherished his role as India’s stand-in coach. He also praised a current lot of youngsters in the Indian team.
“It has been disappointing weather-wise but hope we got a full game. It (coaching role) is fully satisfying, obviously it’s only a stop-gap arrangement but it’s been fun working with the young guys. It’s about the combination you want to play for each game. India is blessed to have a strong depth of talent and bench strength,” pointed out Laxman.
