Rishabh Pant discussed Rohit Sharma’s controversial omission from the playing XI in the ongoing fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Sydney. Following mounting criticism of his batting and captaincy after India’s loss in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, Sharma handed over the leadership to Jasprit Bumrah.
Rohit Sharma missed the pre-match press conference and fielding drills, leading to speculation about his absence. Bumrah, the stand-in captain, said Rohit “opted to rest” and praised his leadership. Rishabh Pant, India’s top scorer with 40 in the first innings, shared his views on the decision.
“It was an emotional decision. We see him as a leader. There are some decisions where you are not involved. I cannot explain more than that,” Pant said during the press conference after Day 1 in Sydney (via The New Indian Express).
Pant played a key role after India chose to bat first on a green pitch with overcast skies. Arriving at the crease with the score at 57-3 in the second session, the left-handed batter restrained his natural instincts and endured numerous body blows from the pacers.
“Definitely it is painful, but sometimes you have to do the hard work for the team. First time I got hit so much in my career but sometimes you have to. That was me today not thinking too much,” Pant said of his knock.
He also discussed the last-minute altercation between Sam Konstas and Jasprit Bumrah. Pant believes a total of over 220 would have been an ideal score in the first innings.
“I feel he had a little chit-chat, wanted to waste some time. I feel that is the reason why he had a conversation with Jassi (Bumrah). He said something, I did not hear it, but I feel that is the only thing which he wanted to do to waste some time so that we do not bowl one more over,” Pant said (via RevSportz).
“I think it (pitch) should remain the same hopefully for us too. But I felt that it was a little tough pitch. The ball was doing off the wicket quite a bit, especially after the end of the second session,” he added.
“Unless there’s clear evidence, we should trust the on-field umpire”- Rishabh Pant on Washington Sundar’s disputed dismissal
The opening day saw controversy once again. After Snicko was involved in disputed decisions in Perth and Melbourne, it caused another issue in Sydney. Third umpire Joel Wilson declared Washington Sundar out, despite Snicko providing no clear evidence.
“Technology can be little better I guess. I feel unless there’s conclusive evidence we should stay with the on-field umpire,” Pant said.
Washington Sundar was disappointed with the decision, as Snicko showed spikes around the glove and bat. Earlier, India benefited from a close call when Kohli survived a golden duck after replays showed Steve Smith grounded the ball while attempting a flick.
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