Between Day 3 of the Fourth Test Australia and India At the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh pants‘s dismissal after playing an unorthodox innings sparked heated debate among the commentators. The shot, which saw Pant caught to third man, drew criticism from the former Australian cricketer. Mark Waughwhile Michael Hussey Defended Pant’s aggressive approach.
Mark Waugh criticizes Rishabh Pant’s choice of personnel
In the 56th over of India’s first innings, Scott BolandBowling around the cover, delivered a full ball outside off stump. Attempting a lap or scoop, Pant misjudged the delivery and delivered it to third man. Australian fielder Nathan Lyontook a position in the third person, had little difficulty in holding. Pant’s unusual dismissal sent fans and commentators into a frenzy, with many questioning his shot selection at such a crucial point in the innings.
Waugh criticized Pant’s batting, saying that the timing India needed him to set up the innings was bad. While acknowledging Pant’s aggressive style, Waugh stressed the importance of boundaries and restraint in shot selection, suggesting that players prefer smart decisions with favorable percentages.
“That’s a terrible blow when his team needs him to bat. I understand that he’s an aggressive player and I want to see him be aggressive, but you still have to have some boundaries with the shots you play. There should be a level of composure and percentages in your favor and this shot goes down“, Waugh said on Fox Sports
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Michael Hussey defends Pant’s natural game
Hussey admitted that Pant’s batting was not ideal, especially for a struggling Indian team, but stressed that it was important not to doubt Pant’s natural aggressive style. Although he expressed his disappointment with the knock, Hussey felt that Pant should continue to play freely and clearly without changing his approach.
“It’s a tough situation because it’s not a great shot and it’s not a great look, especially for an Indian team that wants to fight hard. But you don’t want to doubt his mind, he’s at his best when he’s clear and free and playing naturally. I would be disappointed with the shot, I’m sure he would be disappointed with the shot, but I don’t want him to change the way he plays“, Hussain replied
Waugh’s sarcastic reply to Hussey
Never one to shy away from a playful joke, Waugh responded to Hussey’s defense with a wry quip. He said:That’s why you’re not the head coach, you’re just an assistant coach.“
Hussey, who was part of England’s coaching staff during the victorious 2022 T20 World Cup campaign, found himself on the receiving end of Waugh’s witty remark, adding a touch of humor to an otherwise serious debate.
