Sachin Tendulkar, the Indian batting legend, has weighed in on Rishabh Pant's batting approach ahead of the crucial Test series against England in 2025. Tendulkar's comments come at a time when Pant's form is under scrutiny, particularly after a less-than-stellar performance in the recent tour of Australia and a relatively quiet IPL season. While acknowledging Pant's natural aggressive game, Tendulkar has urged the young wicketkeeper-batsman to temper his instincts with flexibility and awareness of the match situation.
Tendulkar emphasized that Pant should primarily trust his aggressive instincts, which have made him a match-winner. He recognized that Pant's aggressive style is usually in the best interest of the team.. However, he also stressed the importance of curbing those instincts when the team's situation demands a more cautious approach. According to Tendulkar, Pant must possess the flexibility to adapt his game based on the circumstances.
Tendulkar highlighted specific scenarios where Pant might need to deviate from his usual aggressive style. If the team is in a position where saving the game is the priority, Pant should be ready to adopt a more defensive approach, even if it means eschewing risky shots for an extended period. He suggested that Pant might need to put aside his aggressive intent for 45 minutes, an hour, or even two, focusing instead on rotating the strike and preserving his wicket.
When asked what he would tell Pant if he were the captain, Tendulkar said that nine times out of ten, he would encourage Pant to play his natural game without worrying too much. However, he reiterated that the approach must change when the team is looking to save the game. In such situations, he would advise Pant to prioritize the team's interests by curbing his aggression and adopting a more defensive mindset.
Tendulkar's advice to Pant aligns with his broader perspective on how batsmen should approach Test cricket in England. Ahead of the first Test in Headingley, Tendulkar shared his thoughts on how Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant should bat in English conditions. He emphasized the importance of staying positive while also recognizing that being defensive can sometimes be a positive strategy. He advised the batsmen to identify scoring opportunities and adapt to the specific conditions, including overhead conditions, air quality, and pitch conditions.
Tendulkar acknowledged that there would be phases of play where scoring runs would be difficult. During these periods, batsmen need to be cautious, leave deliveries wisely, and play for time. He noted that leaving balls is not merely a defensive act but also a demonstration of intent to play for the right moment. Tendulkar stressed the need for patience and the importance of accepting the challenges that Test cricket presents. He pointed out that conditions would eventually ease, and opportunities to score would arise.
In addition to his advice for Pant, Tendulkar also offered guidance to Shubman Gill, the young captain leading the Indian team in the absence of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Tendulkar advised Gill to focus on the team's plans and discussions within the dressing room, rather than being swayed by external opinions or criticism. He encouraged Gill to prioritize decisions that are in the best interest of the team.
Despite the absence of key players and the challenging conditions in England, Tendulkar expressed optimism about India's chances in the Test series. In fact, he made a bold prediction, stating that India would win the series 3-1. He acknowledged that the task of winning in England has become tougher, especially with a relatively inexperienced team led by Gill. However, he believes that India has the potential to surprise many and emerge victorious. Tendulkar's prediction and his advice to key players like Pant and Gill serve as a morale booster for the Indian camp ahead of a significant contest.
