Rishabh Pant’s Test prowess has earned him high praise from former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, who believes the wicketkeeper-batter is destined for greatness in the format. However, Ganguly also urged Pant to improve his performances in shorter formats.
Pant’s return to the Test side after his horrific car accident in December 2022 has been met with anticipation. He is expected to feature in the opening Test against Bangladesh, starting on September 19 in Chennai.
“I consider Rishabh Pant one of India’s best Test batsmen,” Ganguly said at a promotional event in Kolkata. “He will be an all-time great in Tests if he keeps performing like this.”
Ganguly acknowledged Pant’s impressive performances in T20 and ODI cricket since his return from injury earlier this year. However, he emphasized the need for Pant to enhance his skills in the shorter formats.
“For me, he needs to get better in the shorter formats,” Ganguly said. “With the talent he has, I’m sure with time, he will become one of the best.”
The Indian selectors have included uncapped left-arm pacers Yash Dayal and Akash Deep in the squad, while Mohammed Shami has been given more time to recover from ankle surgery.
“It’s still a very good attack,” Ganguly said. “In India, you will see a lot more spin. Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep are the four best spinners in the world at the moment.”
Ganguly also praised Akash Deep, calling him a player to watch out for. “He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods,” Ganguly said. “He will be as quick as Siraj and Shami, hitting high 140s.”
Bangladesh, fresh from their historic Test series win over Pakistan, will face a tough challenge in India. Ganguly believes India will be too strong for Bangladesh, but he expects a competitive series.
“India will be a different kettle of fish; India, whether at home or away, are a fantastic side with a very strong batting unit,” Ganguly said. “I don’t see Bangladesh winning; India will win the series.”
Ganguly expressed concern about the lack of talent in Pakistan cricket, which he believes has contributed to their recent struggles.
“I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country,” Ganguly said. “Every generation has to produce outstanding players to win, and when I look at Pakistan in world cricket, there is a dearth of talent in that country.”
