Rishabh Pant,A Master Plays The Numbers Game

Rishabh Pant “masterfully plays the numbers game and has his own secret computer” that only he understands, says former India head coach Ravi Shastri after the wicketkeeper-batter’s bold and entertaining performance against England in the first Test here.

Pant played a bold innings, scoring 134 runs off only 178 balls, smashing 12 fours and six sixes, and thrilling the Headingley crowd with his unique style on Day 2. His ‘falling paddle’ shot and the somersault after reaching his century showcased a mix of brilliance and craziness in Pant’s unforgettable performance.

“Unbelievable. Pant really knows how to work the numbers, playing exactly how he likes. He’ll hold his position for a while and then change things up”, Shastri mentioned on Sky Sports.

“He has his own computer, and only he understands how it operates. That’s his unique style. It’s what puts bowlers on edge and makes him a box office draw, a true entertainer and a match winner”, remarked the former India all rounder regarding Pant’s ‘method to madness’.

The 27-year-old Pant’s innings, his seventh Test century and the second since a terrible car accident in late 2022 that nearly took his life was a delight to witness, and Shastri attempted to clarify his somersault after reaching the hundred.

“That’s the reason behind that celebration. He was thanking the man above for granting him this chance”, Shastri explained.

I believe his recovery from that accident was largely influenced by his body structure and being in his mid-20s. When I visited him in the hospital, it was quite a sight to behold. His knee was in bad shape, and he had scars and bruises all over.

Most batters would hesitate to go for a big shot when they’re on 99, but Pant is different. He hit a one-handed six over mid wicket off spinner Shoaib Bashir to reach his century.

“This guy is pure entertainment. One of the best celebrations for a hundred I’ve ever seen. He’s quite the character”, commented former Surrey and Sussex batter Ian Ward while commentating for Sky Sports.

Legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar had famously said “stupid, stupid, stupid” during commentary when Pant attempted a failed scoop in the series loss in Australia. However, on Saturday, he couldn’t help but exclaim “superb, superb, superb” after that unforgettable performance in Leeds.

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