Pune: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper-batsman played yet another crucial knock to help India win the 3rd ODI in Pune on Sunday. Following his 40-ball 77 in the 1st ODI, Pant blasted a 62-ball 78 in the series decider.
The former Indian cricketer has lauded the 23-year-old for his consistency and ‘smart cricket’. “Very, very impressed. He is carrying on the good form he has been in the past three-four months. Most of all, he is playing smart and intelligent cricket. He is not trying to slog every ball,” Gavaskar said.
The wicketkeeper-batsman has faced several criticisms for taking undue risks. Gavaskar also pointed out that Pant has learned how to play according to situations, as he touches new heights across formats with each passing day which he feels is the most impressive feature.
“He is waiting for the right ball to come when the ball is tossed up and within his range, that’s when he is playing the big shot. Otherwise, look at some of the other shots he has played. He has used the bottom hand to a good effect. He is now playing according to the need of the situation, and according to where the fielders are. Therefore, he is making sure he is hitting the ball in vacant spaces,” Gavaskar added.
