News
“I am sure Pant will bat a little more aggressively” – Zaheer Khan
By SMCS - Jul 4, 2022 1:00 pm
Views 58

Former India pace bowler Zaheer Khan said that Rishabh Pant will bat in his usual aggressive manner on Day 4 of the Birmingham Test against England on Monday (July 4). The veteran has praised the keeper-batter for reading the situation well and not going after the bowlers on Sunday. However, England tried to lure Pant to playing aggressive strokes by bringing part-timer spinner Joe Root towards the end of the third day’s play. Notably, Root dismissed Pant for 146 in the first innings. However, Pant batted well against Root without taking any risks.

Rishabh Pant

Looking ahead to Day 4, Zaheer Khan said that Pant will play in his aggressive self as Team India looks to extend their lead, which is already 257. He told Cricbuzz: “I am sure Pant will bat a little more aggressively (on Day 4). On Sunday, he reined himself in since stumps were approaching and India wanted to end the day on a positive note. He did play some good flick shots when the ball was in his arc. India will not be thinking about how much time is left in the Test as of now. It will just be about batting normally, adding runs and playing positively, just as they have been doing in the Test.

ALSO READ: “I’ve always enjoyed his company no matter what” – Hardik Pandya on Ashish Nehra

“A lot will also depend on how the pitch plays. They will look to play at least two sessions. However, if runs come quickly, then there could be a change in the game plan,” he further added.

Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant

However, Rishabh Pant was batting on 30* off 46 at stumps on Day 3. He gave support to Cheteshwar Pujara, who remained unbeaten on 50.

ALSO READ: Gary Kirsten applauds Hardik Pandya, calls him ‘Incredibly humble’

“According to me, the last session of play on Day 3 was a shared one. I really liked Ben Stokes’ spell. (James) Anderson also bowled really well, as did (Stuart) Broad and (Matthew) Potts. Runs were scored and too many wickets did not fall. But it was a really exciting session of Test cricket. There was some good batting and bowling as well,” Zaheer Khan concluded.