Rishabh Pant issued a heartfelt apology to Indian fans on social media after India slumped to a disappointing 0-2 Test series defeat at home against South Africa. The loss marks one of India’s most forgettable red-ball outings in recent years, with the Proteas outclassing the hosts in every department across the two Tests in Kolkata and Guwahati.
South Africa, the reigning World Test Champions, stunned India in the series opener, securing their first Test win on Indian soil since 2010. The visitors then created history in Guwahati, handing India a crushing 408-run defeat—their heaviest margin of loss at home—to seal only their second Test series victory in India. Their previous success came back in early 2000 under Hansie Cronje.
In an emotional note to fans, Rishabh Pant acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating that India “didn’t play good enough cricket over the last two weeks.” He emphasised the pride of representing India and expressed regret that the team could not bring joy to billions of supporters this time. “Sorry we couldn’t live up to expectations, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow,” Pant wrote.
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The wicketkeeper-batter also assured that the side would regroup and return stronger. “We know what this team is capable of. We will refocus and reset to come back better as a team and as individuals. Thank you for your unwavering support. Jai Hind.”
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Pant, who captained India in the second Test with Shubman Gill injured, echoed the same sentiments after the defeat in the post-match presentation. Visibly disappointed, he admitted that India were outplayed. “We need to get better as a team. Credit to South Africa—they dominated the series. Playing at home doesn’t guarantee success in cricket,” he remarked.
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He stressed the need for clarity in mindset and urged the team to stick together and learn from the setback. According to Pant, India’s failure to capitalise on key moments proved costly. “They played better cricket. We didn’t seize our chances, and that cost us the series,” he said.
Despite the disappointment, Rishabh Pant highlighted that the biggest positive is the opportunity to introspect and refine their plans heading into future challenges.
