NEW DELHI: Known for his aggressive and attacking style of batting, Rishabh Pant was asked to stay calm and go defensive against England’s bowling attack on Day 4 of the first Test at Headingley Stadium in Leeds on Monday. During the first session, Pant was heard saying something to KL Rahul, who was at the non-striker’s end — and it was picked up by the stump mic.“Paki hui waali ball. Itna tameez se khelne ke chakkar mein chuth rahi hai,” Pant said.
Pant, who had scored a brilliant century in the first innings, was also caught talking to himself in Hindi on the stump mic. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter, appearing slightly rushed in this innings, was heard telling himself to calm down and avoid taking unnecessary risks.“Waise zaruri nahi hai (It is not important). Maarna hai to seedha lag jayega na next ball (If you want to hit, do it with a straight bat next ball). Zabardasti try kar raha hai (Why are you trying to score forcefully),” Pant was caught saying.
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At the other end, KL Rahul put on a masterclass in timing and composure as India reached 153 for three at lunch on Day 4. Rahul looked solid at 72 off 157 balls, while Pant was unbeaten on 31 off 59 deliveries. India added 63 runs in the session, losing just one wicket, and extended their overall lead to 159 runs.India, who began the day with a 96-run lead, suffered an early blow when skipper Shubman Gill was dismissed just seven balls into the morning session. Gill, coming off a magnificent century in the first innings, chopped on a good-length delivery from Brydon Carse.Rooted to the crease, Gill was cramped for room as the ball crashed into his stumps. Dejected, the Indian captain stared at the spot where the ball pitched — possibly on one of the cracks — as he walked back to the dressing room.
