Rishabh Pant‘s recent performances in Australia have sparked discussion, with former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar weighing in on the discourse. Manjrekar believes the focus should be on Pant’s lack of runs rather than the manner of his dismissals.
Pant, despite a strong record against Australia, hasn’t capitalised on starts during this tour. His struggles have prompted criticism from various sources, including former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar.In seven innings across four matches, Pant has managed 154 runs at an average of 22, with a top score of 37.
Taking to X, Manjrekar wrote, “Pant should be criticised only for his failures, rather than how he fails. He averages 42 in Tests with at least 3 great inngs, ever played by an Indian! In 42 tests he has 6 hundreds & 7 nineties. He is a great player not scoring enough runs & that’s the crux of it. #INDvsAUS”
Pant’s overall record in Australia paints a different picture. In 11 matches, he boasts 778 runs at an average of 45.76 and a strike rate of 66.72. This includes a century, two fifties, and a highest score of 159 not out.
His first tour Down Under in 2018-19 proved particularly fruitful. Pant amassed 350 runs in seven innings at an impressive average of 58.33. He registered a century and finished as India’s leading run-scorer, with a highest score of 159*.
The 2020-21 tour also witnessed significant contributions from Pant. He scored 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. This included two fifties and a best of 97. His innings of 97 in Sydney and 89 not out in Brisbane were pivotal moments in his career.
These performances propelled him to stardom. The Brisbane knock, in particular, sealed a memorable series victory for India. It solidified Pant’s reputation as a fearless and impactful player.
Since his return from a serious car accident in 2022, Pant has featured in nine Tests. He has accumulated 576 runs at an average of 36, including a century and three fifties. His highest score during this period is 109.
The upcoming New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 3, presents Pant with another opportunity.
