On the eve of the first ODI against West Indies in Chennai, India batting coach Vikram Rathour came out in support of the under-fire Rishabh Pant, saying that the team management trust the ability of the youngster and he will be a 'massive player' once he starts getting runs.

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Ever since Pant replaced the legendary MS Dhoni in the limited-overs circuit, he is coping criticism – be it for his batting, wicket-keeping skills or his suggestion to captain while going for DRS calls.

During the recently held T20I series against West Indies, the 22-year-old Rishabh registered the scores of 18, 33* and 0 in three innings.

"The reason why we keep discussing him is because he has got immense ability and everybody believes that he can be an X-factor in any team and in the Indian team as well," Rathour told reporters on Saturday (December 14).

"He has been backed by the selectors and the team management because all of us believe that he is a good player...once he starts getting runs, I am sure, he will be a massive player," he added.

Last week, Indian skipper Virat Kohli had lent his support to Pant, saying that the wicketkeeper batsman needs to be given some space to do well.

 "We certainly believe in Rishabh's ability. But I think it's a collective responsibility of everyone around as well to give that player some space to do well. If he misses a chance, people can't shout MS' (Dhoni) name in the stadium as well. It's not respectful because no player would like that to happen. You are playing in your own country and you should get support rather than always thinking what mistake this guy is gonna make. No one wants to be in that position,” Kohli had said ahead of the first T20I against West Indies.

(With IANS inputs)