Tue Dec 31 01:12:33 UTC 2024: ## Rohit Sharma Calls for Self-Reflection from Rishabh Pant After MCG Disappointment
**Melbourne, Australia** – India captain Rohit Sharma has urged wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant to introspect after his poor performance in the second Test against Australia, which India lost by 184 runs. Pant’s dismissals in both innings were criticized, with Sharma stating that Pant needs to “figure it out himself.”
Pant’s aggressive batting style, which has yielded significant success in the past, proved detrimental in Melbourne. In the first innings, he played a risky ramp shot, resulting in a catch. In the second, attempting to accelerate the chase, he was caught at long-on, triggering a collapse that saw India lose seven wickets for 34 runs.
While acknowledging Pant’s past successes and his natural flair, Sharma highlighted a lack of game awareness. He emphasized the need for Pant to assess risk versus reward in different match situations and to better manage his aggressive instincts. Despite scoring 30 runs in the second innings – his highest score in the series – Pant’s overall performance fell short of expectations, failing to convert several starts into substantial scores.
Sharma confirmed that he’s had conversations with Pant about his approach, but stressed the need for self-assessment rather than constant external guidance. He described the challenge of balancing Pant’s natural talent with the need for more considered shot selection. The captain noted the frustrating trend of Pant getting starts but failing to convert them into substantial scores. Despite Pant’s past heroics, including his crucial role in previous Test victories in Australia, his current form has raised concerns within the Indian camp.
First Piper 