Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most respected Test cricketers, recently shared a balanced yet thought-provoking assessment of Rishabh Pant’s batting approach. While he lauded Pant’s “superb game and defence,” Ashwin expressed frustration over the wicketkeeper-batter’s repeated tendency to throw away his wicket with avoidable, reckless shots. His remarks came in the aftermath of India’s crushing 408-run defeat to South Africa in the second Test, a loss that sealed a 0-2 series whitewash on home soil.

Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin admitted that Pant’s batting often left him anxious in the dressing room. “My heartbeat used to go fast when Rishabh Pant batted,” he said. “He has all the skills—solid defence, great shot-making ability—so I always wonder why he gets out to such shots. He is a very good player, and the day he takes full responsibility, everything will change.”

Ravichandran Ashwin reminded fans of Pant’s X-factor, comparing his explosive potential to Nathan Astle’s iconic double century in Christchurch. But he clarified that no batter can afford to play the same way in every Test, stressing the importance of situational awareness.

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Ashwin also highlighted leadership maturity, noting that Pant, who captained India in the absence of Shubman Gill due to a neck injury, must understand the weight of responsibility. Pant endured a forgettable series, scoring just 49 runs in four innings—a far cry from the impact India needed from their stand-in skipper.

The veteran spinner didn’t hide his disappointment over India’s overall performance. It wasn’t the defeat that hurt him, he said, but the lack of fight and resilience. Ashwin felt the Guwahati pitch offered a fair contest and believed the team could have stretched the match to the final session with more grit.

“A leader must take responsibility, but inside the dressing room, everyone must put their hand up. Accountability cannot fall on just one person,” he emphasised.

Ashwin further pointed to a glaring experience gap in India’s current Test setup, insisting that time and patience will be required for this young group to grow. “This team is way behind in terms of experience. Improvement will only come when individuals start owning their roles,” he concluded.

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This defeat marks India’s second Test series whitewash at home under head coach Gautam Gambhir—following the 0-3 loss to New Zealand last year. It is also South Africa’s first Test series win in India since 2000, when Hansie Cronje’s side claimed a 2-0 victory. Temba Bavuma now joins Cronje in the exclusive list of visiting captains to beat India in their own backyard.