Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant smashed a remarkable century in the first innings and a brilliant fifty in the second innings, but the efforts were not enough for the touring side to save the rescheduled fifth and final Test against England in Birmingham.
After India’s 7-wicket defeat against England on July 5, focus shifted to the upcoming limited-over series, and former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar suggested that Indian team management play Pant as an opener get more benefit from his talent in white-ball cricket.
He believes that India can benefit more by using Pant as an opener in limited-overs cricket as Australia did with the legendary Adam Gilchrist.
His comments came before the first T20I between England and India, to be played on July 7 at the Rose Bowl Cricket Ground, in Hampshire.
Sunil Gavaskar said on Sports Today: “Not a bad option at all. Look at what Adam Gilchrist did for Australia in white-ball cricket. He used to bat at No.6 or 7 in Test cricket but while opening in white-ball cricket he was destructive. Maybe someone like Rishabh Pant can be equally destructive, he will get that many more overs to play.”
He added, “We have been talking about him as a finisher but then he comes in there, starts slamming the ball, and straight away gets out. Here, he will have the awareness that he doesn't have to go bang bang from the first ball. He will have a few deliveries to get used to the pace and movement. In England, there will be a little more movement even with the white ball than anywhere else. That can actually work in India's favor.”
