Rishabh Pant’s aggressive approach in Test cricket has once again come under discussion ahead of India’s two-match series against Sri Lanka. However, former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta has defended the left-hander’s style, insisting that Pant should not be discouraged from playing his natural game.
Pant has occasionally been criticised for losing his wicket while attempting ambitious shots, with his latest example coming during India’s warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI. Despite scoring only 30 runs across the two innings, Dasgupta believes the mode of dismissal should not determine whether Pant’s approach is considered responsible.
Deep Dasgupta wants Rishabh Pant to continue attacking
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Dasgupta backed Pant to remain aggressive and explained why he would rather see the wicketkeeper-batter get dismissed while playing his attacking shots. The former wicketkeeper added that Pant should have the freedom to attack because it is a major part of his game.
“He should bat exactly the way he usually does. I remember a few matches back where he was overtly defensive. I would rather have him get out going for a six than getting out playing a forceful defense,” Dasgupta said.
He also highlighted the threat posed by Sri Lanka’s predominantly left-arm spin attack, making Pant’s form and mindset particularly important for India.
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Pant’s Test record backs his attacking style
Pant remains one of India’s most successful Test batters of the modern era. The 28-year-old has scored 3,557 runs at an average of 43.37 in 50 Tests, while his form since the beginning of 2025 has been even more impressive, with an average of over 50 across eight matches. Dasgupta also questioned the tendency to label attacking dismissals as irresponsible while accepting defensive dismissals as acceptable.
“The truth is certain batters have defense as their strength, while it’s attack for others,” he explained.
According to Dasgupta, dismissals should instead be judged by factors such as the timing of the shot and whether the batter picked the right bowler to attack. Pant will now have an opportunity to make his first Test appearance in Sri Lanka when the series opener begins in Galle on August 15.
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