Cricket legend Geoffrey Boycott has put the blame squarely on Rishabh Pant himself for the unfortunate injury that could sideline the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman from crucial matches.
The Unfortunate Incident
The incident unfolded when India was in a commanding position, cruising at 213 for 3. Rishabh Pant, who appeared to be batting comfortably, attempted an audacious reverse sweep against medium-pacer Chris Woakes.
The risky shot went awry, with the ball taking a bottom edge and striking his boot. The impact was severe enough that Pant had to be ferried back to the pavilion on a golf buggy, retiring hurt from the innings.
Subsequent scans revealed a fracture, an injury that is expected to keep him out of action for at least six weeks. This significant setback casts a shadow over his continued participation in the series.
Boycott’s Blunt Assessment
While expressing sympathy for Pant’s injury, Geoffrey Boycott was unequivocal in his criticism of the shot selection. “It is always sad when a player gets hurt and affects his ability to play a part in the game. Especially someone as talented as him,” Boycott remarked. “But he has only himself to blame.”
Boycott questioned the necessity of such an adventurous stroke given India’s strong position. He pointed out that India was batting “orthodox” and there was no need for an “outrageous” attempt at that moment.
He acknowledged that Pant’s unique style often leads to astonishing shots and cheers. However, Boycott noted that when such risks don’t pay off, they can look “silly.” He stressed that Pant’s absence from both innings could be costly for India, directly impacting the runs they could add.
India’s Batting Challenge
As play resumed, India found themselves at 261 for 4. With Pant’s potential absence, the onus shifted to in-form players like Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur, who is known for his ability to contribute crucial runs lower down the order.
Boycott suggested that with Pant doubtful to bat, India was effectively “five down.” He highlighted that England’s bowlers, fresh and with a new ball due, would be eager to capitalize on this situation. He predicted that England could quickly wrap up the remaining wickets, possibly limiting India’s total to just over 300.
England’s Opportunity Knocks
Boycott emphasized the importance for England to seize this opportunity. He cautioned that if India managed to score “anything over 340,” it would be a missed chance for the English bowling attack.
He urged England to make the most of India’s misfortune. A strong bowling performance on the morning of the second day, particularly with the new ball, followed by a solid batting display to build a substantial lead, would give England control of the Test match.
- Geoffrey Boycott believes Rishabh Pant is responsible for his own injury due to an unnecessary risky shot.
- Pant’s attempted reverse sweep resulted in a fracture, potentially sidelining him for six weeks.
- Boycott highlighted that India’s comfortable batting position made the audacious shot uncalled for.
- Pant’s absence is seen as a significant setback for India, with England urged to capitalize on the advantage.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between aggressive brilliance and unnecessary risk in high-stakes cricket.
