Rishabh Pant’s natural flair and aggressive mindset have always been a talking point in Indian Test cricket. His ability to take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs is undeniable, but so is his tendency to throw away promising starts. During India’s recent five-Test tour of Australia in 2024-25, Pant once again found himself under the spotlight—not for his brilliance, but for a string of rash dismissals that frustrated fans and experts alike.

Pant’s tour tally of 255 runs in nine innings, with a top score of 61, didn’t quite match the expectations pinned on him. His scores—37, 1, 21, 28, 9, 28, 30, 40, and 61—tell the tale of a player getting in but not converting. Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar, commentating during the fourth Test at the MCG, did not mince words, calling Pant’s shot selection “stupid” after another soft dismissal.

ALSO READ: Mohammed Siraj Slams Trolls for Mocking His Father’s Job as Auto Driver: “It’s My Strength, Not an Insult”

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly also voiced concerns about Pant’s approach. Speaking to Revsportz, Ganguly criticised the wicketkeeper-batter for swinging at almost every delivery in challenging, seaming conditions. “Too many shots. He was just swinging at every ball. That’s not how you bat when the ball is moving,” Ganguly remarked.

Despite the criticism, Rishabh Pant remains a key figure in India’s red-ball plans. Recently appointed vice-captain for the upcoming England tour, he’ll be keen to turn the tide. England has been a fruitful hunting ground for Pant, where he has scored 556 runs in nine Tests at an average of 32.70, including two centuries.

ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir Requests England-Like Pitches Ahead of India’s Test Series, Confirms Curator

Sourav Ganguly offered a final piece of advice: “He has a good defence. He must use it. I want to see him fight, look ugly if needed, but not give his wicket away. He has the talent. Now he needs discipline.”