Team India wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant said he adopted a more restrained approach during the first innings of the fifth and final Test match against Australia. Rishabh Pant said the pitch conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) did not allow him to play in his usual aggressive style.
Jasprit Bumrah chose to bat first after winning the toss in Sydney on Friday, January 3. Pant came to the crease when the team collapsed to 57/3. The left-handed batsman adjusted his approach depending on the conditions. He also took several body blows from the Pacers before being sent off for 40.
I could have taken a 50-50 chance but I didn't – Rishabh Pant
Speaking at the press conference after the first day's play, Rishabh Pant, who faced criticism for his performance in Melbourne, said the pitch conditions at the SCG did not allow him to play aggressively. He added that there were moments when he could have taken risks but chose to play it safe instead.
“I think in that innings, I wasn't in a frame of mind where I wanted to take charge of the game because the wicket was doing so much and the situation we were in. While playing, I felt I could play a little bit of defensive cricket,” Pant said.
“Yes, there is a time to attack, but you have to feel it from the inside. I can't think of how I'm going to play. Whatever the game demands on that day, that's what I try to do.”
“That was my way of thinking. I think it's not too difficult, although the initial part can be a challenge when you see a ball you can hit. But sometimes, you have to play cricket more rationally. Maybe there were 50-50 chances -50 taken early in this inning.”
Trying to maintain a balance between attack and defense – Rishabh Pant
The 27-year-old admitted that he is working on finding the right balance between attack and defence. Pant also admitted that batsmen often overthink when they are not performing well.
“I think mostly you want to go back to the way you played the game, but in the end, you have to keep evolving. I feel like there's not just one way to play cricket. Whatever comes naturally is always best, but you have to find that balance.” Between playing aggressive cricket and being selective with your shots.
That's what I try to do – make the most of my style while keeping it simple. Not overthinking is key because when you don't get the best rides, overthinking can take over. “I'm just trying to keep things clear and give 200% on the field.”
Not sure what a good score is on this track – Beau Webster
New Australian all-rounder Beau Webster agreed with Rishabh Pant's assessment of the pitch. Webster highlighted that the Indian batsmen focused on making the Australian bowlers work hard through extended periods of bowling.
“They (Indian batsmen) decided to give up and made us bowl a lot of overs. I'm not sure what a good score would be on that track but we would have batted first had he won the toss,” Webster said.
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