India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I: Harbhajan Singh Credits MS Dhoni For Rishabh Pant's Match-Winning Knock
After failing to impress in the first T20I, Rishabh Pant roared back to form on Friday, playing a match-winning knock in the second T20I against New Zealand in Auckland. The youngster was promoted to number three after India lost Rohit Sharma in pursuit of 159. Pant came at a time when India were well in control as they were placed at 79 for 1. However, Shikhar Dhawan and Vijay Shankar departed in quick succession, leaving India reeling at 118 for 3.
While the required run-rate was well under control, another wicket would have pretty much turned the game on its head. However, Pant showed remarkable maturity and mastered the chase by sharing an unbeaten 44-run stand with senior teammate MS Dhoni. Pant finished the game with a four and remained unbeaten on 40 while Dhoni scored 20. India won the game by seven wickets to draw level in the three-match series.
#TeamIndia win by 7 wickets. Level the three match series 1-1 ??#NZvIND pic.twitter.com/kudlWM0r9X
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 8, 2019
Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has praised Pant, saying that his knock like these will go a long way in making a strong case for his inclusion in the World Cup squad.
“Rishabh Pant made full use of his opportunity today and batting with MS Dhoni,” Harbhajan told Aaj Tak.
The veteran off-spinner further credited Dhoni for Pant’s match-winning knock.
“When he hit a few casual shots, Dhoni walked up to him and explained what he needed to do. After that he played safer shots, down the ground and hit only the balls which were there to be hit,” Harbhajan said.
“Every opportunity will take Pant closer to the World Cup squad, especially if he continues to keep scoring like this. I fell he has that X factor which India will need in the World Cup. Pant is someone who can change games,” Harbhajan added.
With the series now locked at 1-1, both the teams will have everything to play for when they lock horns in the third and final T20I on Sunday.
