Sat Dec 28 06:35:56 UTC 2024: ## Gavaskar Slams Pant’s “Stupid” Shot in Melbourne Test

**Melbourne, Australia:** Rishabh Pant’s reckless dismissal in the third day of the Melbourne Test has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar. Pant, who was attempting to steer India away from a follow-on, fell for 28 runs after repeatedly playing risky shots, ultimately gifting his wicket to Nathan Lyon.

Despite a promising partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, pushing India’s score to 164, Pant’s dismissal proved costly. With India needing 85 runs to avoid the follow-on, Pant’s risky ramp shot, attempted twice consecutively, ended with a catch to Lyon off a Scott Boland delivery.

Gavaskar, commentating on the match, expressed his anger, calling Pant’s shot “stupid” and criticizing his lack of awareness of the field placement and the precarious match situation. He emphasized that the shot was not a natural instinct, but a reckless decision that cost his team dearly. The incident has also resulted in Pant facing significant online criticism. India ultimately avoided the follow-on, but Pant’s dismissal remains a major talking point of the match.

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