India vs Australia: ‘Rishabh Pant needs to work hard on his wicket-keeping,’ believes Parthiv Patel
Follow Us
Parthiv Patel and Rishabh Pant
Young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant replaced Wriddhiman Saha during the Boxing Day Test against Australia. Saha, who kept the wickets for the visitors in the inaugural match, failed to score substantial runs for his side at the Adelaide Oval. As a result, Pant came into the side to add some depth in their batting department.
Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel said that Pant is still a ‘work-in-progress’ player. He said that the youngster played the second Test because of his batting and needs to work on his glovework behind the stumps. The southpaw grabbed some good takes during the match. However, he dropped a regulation catch off Ravi Ashwin while Pat Cummins was on strike.
Also Read | India vs Australia: Ajinkya Rahane matches MS Dhoni’s record after Melbourne win
“Everyone, including the Indian team management is aware that his wicket-keeping is still work in progress. He’s playing this Test match because of his batting because runs were important, so you will have to move ahead expecting such occasional drop catches. He needs to work hard on his wicket-keeping,” Parthiv told Cricbuzz.
‘Different preparation while playing in Australia’ – Patel
The former wicketkeeper-batsman said that there is a different approach when it comes to playing in Australia. He said that as there is more bounce on the Aussie pitches, and players need to adapt accordingly. Parthiv also stated that Pant is working hard to improve and would get better with time.
“There’s a different type of preparation when you’re playing in Australia. The bounce is a little more on those pitches as compared to India. But he has previously played four Test matches in Australia too. So, he has the experience and knows how to keep wicket in Australia,” Parthiv explained.
“There’s no doubt that he works on his keeping but having said that, he can back himself a bit more when it comes to pressure situations. In terms of preparation and process, he isn’t too behind but yes, he can focus a bit more towards keeping.”
Also Read | India vs Australia: Virat Kohli congratulates team India for an emphatic win at the Boxing Day Test
Stay Updated!
Sachin Arora
(2527 Articles Published)