Former England captain David Gower has expressed deep admiration for Rishabh Pant’s unique batting style, lamenting the Indian star’s injury that will keep him out of the upcoming fifth Test.
Pant’s Gritty Performance
Rishabh Pant sustained a toe fracture during the fourth Test’s first day at Old Trafford, forcing him to retire hurt. Despite the severe pain, he made a remarkable return to the crease.
Batting virtually on one foot, Pant showcased incredible courage and skill, scoring 54 runs off 75 balls. His determination under duress was widely praised, although Dhruv Jurel has since taken over wicketkeeping duties.
Gower’s Ode to Left-Handers
David Gower, a left-handed batting legend himself, believes Pant and England’s Ben Duckett carry on a rich tradition of exceptional left-handed batsmen. He humorously noted, “Tongue-in-cheek…we have always said left-handers are the best.”
Gower recalled watching greats like Gary Sobers and Brian Lara, highlighting the grace associated with left-handed batting. He sees similar captivating qualities in Duckett’s aggressive style and, of course, in Rishabh Pant.
The Unpredictable Genius of Rishabh Pant
Gower, who amassed over 8,000 Test runs for England, genuinely regrets Pant’s absence from the remainder of the series. He described Pant as a player who “does the things that only others dream of.”
“Some people call them nightmares but he’s an absolutely brilliant extraordinary player to watch,” Gower added. He emphasized that Pant’s style is so unique it cannot be replicated or taught to younger players, calling him “incredible to another level.”
Impact on the Series
Gower believes the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series will be significantly poorer without Pant’s explosive presence. His unconventional yet effective approach to the game brings an unmatched excitement.
Pant has been advised six weeks of rest for his toe injury. Despite this, he showed immense dedication by being present in the dressing room and even hobbling out to bat again in the fourth Test, underlining his commitment to the team.
- Rishabh Pant is ruled out of the fifth Test due to a toe fracture sustained during his courageous 54-run innings.
- Former England captain David Gower praised Pant as an “extraordinary player” who does things “others can only dream of.”
- Gower believes Pant’s unique, unreplicable batting style is a major loss to the ongoing series.
Pant’s recovery will be closely watched as cricket fans eagerly await his return to the field to witness his unique brand of play.
