Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned Rishabh Pant’s performance in India’s recent Test series against Sri Lanka. Although Pant scored 168 runs in three innings, including two half-centuries, Ashwin believes the wicketkeeper-batter could have contributed more in important situations.
Pant Scores Runs but Faces Criticism
Pant showed his ability with the bat during the series and played some useful innings. However, Ashwin feels that scoring runs is not the only measure of a player’s performance, especially when the team is under pressure.
Ashwin compared Pant with Sri Lankan batter Sonal Dinusha, who finished the series as the highest run-scorer with 420 runs and three centuries.
While Ashwin recognised Pant’s natural talent and attacking style, he questioned whether taking too many risks at crucial moments could hurt India’s chances of winning Test matches.
Risky Approach Under Pressure
Pant is known for his aggressive batting and ability to change the direction of a match quickly. His attacking style has helped India win important games in the past.
However, Ashwin believes there are situations in Test cricket when Pant needs to be more careful. According to him, an aggressive shot at the wrong time can give the opposition an opportunity to take control.
Ashwin wants Pant to understand when to attack and when to play with greater responsibility.
Looking Back at Australia Series
Ashwin also discussed Pant’s memorable performances during India’s 2020-21 Test series in Australia. Pant played important innings in Sydney and Brisbane, helping India compete strongly against Australia.
However, Ashwin pointed out that those victories were not achieved because of one player alone. He highlighted the contributions of players such as Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur, who also played important roles during the series.
His point was that Test cricket is a team sport, and victories usually come from several players making important contributions.
Ashwin Rejects “Once-in-a-Generation” Label
Ashwin also disagreed with the idea that Pant should be treated as a “once-in-a-generation” player.
He argued that talented players should still be judged by the same standards as other cricketers. Being naturally gifted does not mean a player should be free from criticism when mistakes are made.
Ashwin believes Pant has the ability to become one of India’s most important all-format players, but he needs to take greater responsibility in high-pressure situations.
India Win the Series 1-0
India finished the Sri Lanka series with a 1-0 victory. Despite the win, the team remains fifth in the World Test Championship standings.
India’s next Test assignments will come against New Zealand in November, followed by a series against Australia in January 2027.
With important Test matches ahead, Pant will be expected to play a major role. Ashwin’s comments underline the need for the young star to balance his natural attacking game with better decision-making when India is under pressure.