Seniors encourage me to play my natural aggressive game: Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant’s destructive batting has grabbed the headlines in newspapers. The left-hander currently sits at the second position of the highest run-getter in the ongoing Ranji trophy with 903 runs from 7 matches. The more amazing fact is that the Delhi batsman got these runs at an average of 90.30 while maintaining a staggering strike rate of 111.61.

The wicket-keeper batsman, who smashed the fastest hundred in the Ranji Trophy, amassed 100 in just 48 balls against Jharkhand. He also pocketed the honour of being the third youngest Indian to score a first-class triple century. Such has been his impact on the current domestic season that even before earning an India cap, Rishabh Pant is being spoken of as another ‘Adam Gilchrist’ in the making.

He seems to be very hungry and has been making a loud statement, not with his mouth but with his bat. Many think that it’s just a matter of time before he breaks into the Indian team. But, the selectors at the moment have decided to wait. Most recently, when Saha was injured, there were speculations that Pant may get a look in. However, Parthiv Patel was chosen ahead of him.

Speaking at a recent interview, Pant revealed that he wasn’t affected by the decision and only wants to focus on his potential rather than distractions.

“At the time of selection, I was playing in a Ranji game. It was only after the match that I learnt that my name had been discussed. I was not disappointed and as of now I am only focusing on performing to my potential and contribute to my team’s success.”

I have always been in a positive frame of mind. Selection to the national team is not in my hands. I am not thinking about international cricket and letting myself affected by any such thoughts.

Pant currently has had the opportunity to play alongside the likes of Gautam Gambhir and Shikhar Dhawan. Talking about the experience of playing with them, he says, “They have always asked me to trust my instincts and not look to curb them. The seniors have encouraged me to play my natural brand of aggressive game and it is paying off.”

Finally, he also commented on his prolific run in the ongoing Ranji season.

“I have worked hard on my batting before this season started. I am glad that it is yielding results. The only way to make the selectors recognise your ability is by scoring runs heavily and so far my hard work has stood me in good stead.”