Ashwin Warns Rishabh Pant Over Test Shot Selection
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has issued a sharp warning to Rishabh Pant over his shot selection in Test cricket, arguing that aggressive batting must be balanced with match awareness. His comments came after Pant scored 168 runs in India’s two-Test series against Sri Lanka.
Ashwin Questions Rishabh Pant’s Decision-Making
Ashwin said his expectations from Pant had not yet been fully met despite the wicketkeeper-batter producing two half-centuries during the Sri Lanka series.
He argued that Pant’s attacking style should not become an excuse for taking unnecessary risks when a Test match is delicately poised. Ashwin stressed that players must adapt their approach according to what the team requires rather than relying solely on their natural instincts.
He warned that while Test victories require contributions from an entire team, a single poor decision can sometimes change the course of a match.
Ashwin Rejects ‘Once-in-a-Generation’ Label
Ashwin also pushed back against descriptions of Pant as a “once-in-a-generation” cricketer, saying such labels should not shield experienced players from scrutiny.
He pointed out that Yashasvi Jaiswal and other talented Indian players could also merit similar recognition and argued against giving any individual special treatment.
Pant has now played more than 50 Tests, and Ashwin said that level of experience should bring greater responsibility and improved situational awareness.
Pant Scores 168 Runs Against Sri Lanka
Pant finished the two-match Sri Lanka series with 168 runs, including two half-centuries, as India won the series 1-0 after the second Test ended in a draw.
Ashwin praised Pant’s talent but maintained that better decision-making could help him become an even more complete player across formats.
