Ex-Cricketers Slam Captain Pant for "Reckless" Shot as India Concede Huge Lead

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India’s stand-in captain Rishabh Pant is once again in the limelight after his early dismissal in Guwahati in the ongoing Test series against South Africa. The middle-order batsman was caught behind by the wicketkeeper after edging the ball while attempting a high-risk shot. He scored only 7 runs after an aggressive start. This risky attempt is drawing a lot of criticism from experts and cricket fans.

Expert Analysis: Saba Karim Criticizes Pant’s Approach

Former Indian cricketer Saba Karim strongly criticized Rishabh Pant's rash decision. He questioned the high-risk shot Pant played on the third day of the Guwahati Test. 

He said, “There’s no logical explanation for this. Perhaps for the first time in his Test career, even Rishabh Pant might struggle to justify that shot.”

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He argued that, “It came right after tea, and as captain he is expected to shoulder responsibility. He has enough experience at this level to show the way by coping with pressure and taking blows.”

Karim also noted that crucial attributes were missing from Pant's approach. Attempting a high-risk shot in that situation cornered the entire team. Karim also noted that recovering from this difficult position would be very challenging for India.

A Moment of Madness: The Dismissal and Aftermath

Rishabh Pant came under intense scrutiny after playing another impulsive shot. The team needed steadiness more than flair when he came out after the tea break. Pant charged down the track, aiming for a big cross-batted hit off Marco Jansen.

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The ball took a faint edge, and he was caught by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne. To make matters worse, Pant immediately wasted a valuable review despite the clear edge. This dismissal has deepened India's troubles, triggering a massive collapse. As a result, India fell to a mere 201 against the first-innings total of 489 by South Africa. The latter gained a huge 288-run lead, firmly taking control of the second Test.

After Rishabh Pant’s early dismissal, Team India was under immense pressure, and the South African team had a significant lead. Karim’s response to this loss was deemed valid, considering the pressure this loss put on the other teammates.