NEW DELHI: Rishabh Pant may have redeemed himself with his match-winning innings in the epic Gabba Test win and veteran wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha on Friday said the youngster will also improve his skills behind the stumps, like someone masters “algebra” gradually.
Saha, who is considered India’s number one wicketkeeper, said he does not see Pant’s heroic show as the end of road for him in the Indian team and he will continue to strive for excellence, leaving the selection headache to the team management.
“You can ask him (Pant), we have a friendly relationship and help each other whoever gets into the XI. Personally, there’s no conflict with him,” Saha told PTI in an interview after returning home from the historic Test series win in Australia.
“I dont’ see who is No 1 or 2… Team will give a chance to those who does better. I will continue to do my job. Selection is not in my hands, it’s up to the management.” Saha was all praise for the 23-year-old Pant whose 89 not out on the fifth day sealed the match for India at the Gabba to win the series 2-1.
“No one learns algebra in class I. You always go step by step. He is giving his best and will definitely improve. He has always matured and proved himself. In the long run, it augurs well for the Indian team, he said of Pant who was often found wanting behind the stumps.
“The way he has shown his intent after being sidelined from his favourite T20/ODI formats was really exceptional.”
Since the Brisbane show, Pant’s comparison with the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni has only grown but Saha said “Dhoni will remain Dhoni and everyone has his own identity”.
Saha scored 9 and 4 in the Day/Night Adelaide Test where India were shot out for a record low of 36 and he did not play in the remaining three matches.
–PTI

Press Trust of India