The veteran Indian wicket-keeper batsman, Wriddhiman Saha has clarified that there is no rivalry or competition of sorts between him and Rishabh Pant, while also praising the latter for his match-winning knock in the Brisbane Test earlier this week. Pant scored 89 not out to help India gun down 328 on Day 5 of the Brisbane Test which also helped the visitors retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the second time in succession in Australia.

Saha, who is considered to be the best wicketkeeper in international cricket, said, “You can ask him (Pant), we have a friendly relationship and help each other whoever gets into the XI. Personally, there’s no conflict with him,” Saha said after returning home following the historic Test series win in Australia. I don’t see who is No.1 or 2… Team will give a chance to those who do better. I will continue to do my job. Selection is not in my hands, it’s up to the management.”

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He further added, “No one learns algebra in class I. You always go step by step. He is giving his best and will definitely improve. He has matured and proved himself. In the long run, it augurs well for the Indian team. “The way he has shown his intent after being sidelined from his favorite T20 and ODI formats were really exceptional.”

Saha also conceded that Pant was included in the playing XI ahead of him in the remaining three Tests because of his failure with the bat at the Adelaide Oval.

Wriddhiman Saha acknowledged, “I was unable to score runs that’s why Pant got the chance. It’s as simple as that. I always focused on improving my skills…It’s the same approach now.”

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India became the second team since 1988 to win a Test against Australia at the Gabba on January 19 after completing the highest successful run chase at the venue thanks to Shubman Gill (91), Pant, and Cheteshwar Pujara’s (56) valiant knocks on the final day of the tour.