New Delhi, August 17: The first Test match between India and Sri Lanka is underway at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. On the second day, Rishabh Pant once again failed to capitalize on a good start and returned to the pavilion after a poor shot selection. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has raised concerns about Pant’s timing and decision-making regarding his shot selection.
In an interview with Sony Sports, Kaif stated, “I have no complaints about how Rishabh Pant got out. That’s his style of play. However, I do have concerns about his common sense. It was the first over with the new ball. He stepped out of the crease three times during that over. Common sense dictates playing a cut shot and observing the new ball for five to six overs. This is the tradition of Test cricket. Any player who plays like him should also use common sense.”
Kaif further expressed his surprise at Pant stepping out on the very first ball of the over. “You need to assess the situation. Even if a batsman is on 150 runs, they still play a few balls cautiously when the new ball arrives. I’m deducting points here. He is lagging behind in logic and cricketing sense.” At that moment, Pant was looking in good form, having scored 39 runs.
However, Pant attempted to play a big shot off the debutant bowler Keshara Nuwanthika from Sri Lanka, but the bat turned in his hands, resulting in a catch to the fielder. Pant appeared disappointed with his shot as he walked back to the pavilion. This is not the first time Pant has been dismissed in such a manner. By the end of the second day’s play, the Indian team had scored 460 runs, losing 9 wickets in their first innings, with Kuldeep Yadav on 12 runs and Prasidh Krishna on 1 run.
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SM/AS
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