Rishabh Pant‘s return to the field after a long injury layoff has garnered significant attention, not just in India but also overseas. Former Australian captain Tim Paine has weighed in on Pant’s return, expressing his joy and highlighting the Indian wicket-keeper batter’s crucial role in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
A Welcome Return After a Grueling Ordeal
Speaking on ESPN’s Around the Wicket, Paine acknowledged the severity of Pant’s car accident and the subsequent recovery process. “A lot has been said about the ordeal he went through and how close he was to losing a leg,” Paine said. “Just to see him walk back onto the field, as a cricket fan and as a fan of Rishabh…”
Paine also addressed the playful banter they shared during their playing days. “I know we had our banter back and forth, it was really cheeky and good fun,” he clarified. Paine emphasized his off-field rapport with Pant, stating, “I have always had fun chatting with him off the field, enjoyed watching him play.”
Pant’s Play Reflects Paine’s Unfulfilled Desire
Paine openly admired Pant’s aggressive style of play. “He played cricket like I always wanted to,” Paine confessed. “I didn’t have the courage, to take the game on or even the skill.” This statement highlights Pant’s fearless approach, something Paine seemingly envied during his own cricketing career.
Paine expressed his hope for Pant’s complete recovery in time for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. “I certainly appreciate what he brings to the game, the joy he brings to the Indian cricket team fans. I can’t wait to keep watching him and hopefully, he is fit and well enough to make it to Australian shores for the summer,” Paine concluded.
Pant’s return to competitive cricket is a significant development for Indian cricket. His fitness and form will undoubtedly be a major talking point leading up to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year. If he recovers fully, a thrilling cricketing contest between India and Australia, featuring Pant’s flamboyant batting, is highly anticipated.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
