Is Rishabh Pant’s overly aggressive Test approach a problem? Coach Gambhir reacts

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has weighed in on discussions surrounding Rishabh Pant’s role in the Test side ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, stressing the importance of respecting match situations while encouraging the wicketkeeper-batsman’s natural play. Pant remains part of India’s red-ball squad despite being dropped as vice-captain, a decision that has sparked considerable debate ahead of the match, which begins on June 6.

The comments come at once when Pant’s place in the Indian leadership group and his approach with the bat are under increased scrutiny after a string of inconsistent performances.

“We don’t want Rishabh Pant to change, but international cricket requires players to respect match situations,” Gambhir said, according to PTI.

The India coach’s remarks suggest that while the management appreciates Pant’s aggressive and winning style, there is also an expectation that he will adapt his decision-making to the demands of different phases of a Test match.

Pant has long been regarded as one of India’s most explosive batsmen who can change the course of a game in a session. However, his attacking instincts also drew criticism when they resulted in dismissals at crucial moments, especially when the team was under pressure.

Pant’s approach remains in focus

Awareness of the keeper and batsman’s game has been a recurring theme over the past two years. One of the most notable instances came during the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia when Pant attempted an unorthodox stroke and was dismissed at a critical stage of the match.

The shot prompted former Indian captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar to publicly criticize the dismissal, he famously described it as “dumb, dumb, dumb” on air. The incident reignited the debate about balancing Pant’s natural attacking instincts with the responsibility that comes with batting in demanding Test situations.

Pant’s performances in the Test series against South Africa have also come under scrutiny recently. While India suffered a historic series defeat, questions were raised about the wicketkeeper’s shot selection and ability to handle crucial moments during the innings.

Removing it from the limited overshoot setting has only intensified discussions about his future role in the national team. Competition for the wicketkeeper-batsman position has increased, with several players producing stronger returns in white-ball cricket.

Despite the criticism, Pant continues to enjoy the support of leading the team in the longest format, where his record includes some memorable innings in tough overseas conditions. Gambhir’s comments suggest that India are not looking to fundamentally change Pant’s approach, but rather to encourage him to combine aggression with greater situational awareness.

As India prepare to face Afghanistan, Pant will once again find himself in the limelight, with every innings likely to be scrutinized as he tries to justify the faith reposed in him by the team management.

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Published on:

June 5, 2026 1:08 PM IST