Nobody Has Gifted Me The Place In The Indian Team: Rishabh Pant
Ever since Rishabh Pant impressed in the 2016 U19 World Cup, he has been continuously compared with the legendary MS Dhoni. Rishabh Pant continued to impress after his heroics in the World Cup and was soon widely regarded as the heir of Dhoni. The comparisons have not stopped at all even now and they are unlikely to be stopped anytime soon.
However, Rishabh Pant has made it clear that he is trying his best to learn from his legendary teammate instead of competing with him. In an interview with Bombay Times, the youngster opened up on his relationship with Dhoni and his career so far.
Read More: Ravichandran Ashwin Still India’s Best Spinner: Anil Kumble
“I do think about the comparison with Dhoni sometimes, but it’s too difficult. If I am learning from him, I can’t possibly think that I can be in his league overnight,” said Rishabh Pant.
“I am just trying to learn from him. I consider him my mentor. He has taught me so many things — be it how to work on my batting or mind-set before I go to bat, and most importantly, keeping calm in pressure situations,” he added.
Rishabh Pant is well aware of the pitfalls that might come his way if he tries to replicate Dhoni at such an early stage of his career. The southpaw is thus trying to keep things simple for the time being.
“At 21, if I start thinking that I have to fill Dhoni’s shoes, it will get very difficult for me. I just try to keep it simple. I want to play the game to the best of my ability and learn from everyone around me, especially my seniors,” he said.
It did not take Pant very long to break into the Indian team. Just months after the U19 World Cup heroics, he earned his maiden international call-up. The youngster has already sealed his place in the Test side. He scored tons in England and Australia in testing conditions and showed he belonged at the top level.
Many believe that Pant got an entry into the Indian team a bit too early. But Pant thinks otherwise.
“It’s good for a player to get an early break. Besides, I am not getting anything for free. I have worked hard and earned my place in the Indian cricket team. Nobody has gifted that to me.
Read More: Selectors Need To Communicate With MS Dhoni, Says Anil Kumble
“Koi nahi bolta ke, ‘Bhai team mein aaja’. Aisa nahi hota hai. If you don’t perform well, you won’t be selected. It’s as simple as that. Everyone has to justify their spot in the team,” he said.
Rishabh Pant will be next seen in action in the forthcoming series against South Africa. India will play three T20Is and as many Tests against the Proteas later this month.
