Tue Dec 31 03:15:25 UTC 2024: ## Pant’s Reckless Shots Cost India in Boxing Day Test Defeat; Rohit Calls for Maturity
**Melbourne, Australia** – India’s crushing 184-run defeat to Australia in the fourth Test at the MCG has been attributed largely to Rishabh Pant’s rash batting, according to captain Rohit Sharma. Pant’s ill-timed lap shot in the first innings and an aggressive slog in the second, both at crucial junctures, handed Australia significant advantages. His dismissals drew criticism, including on-air commentary from Sunil Gavaskar.
While acknowledging Pant’s past successes with his high-risk approach, Rohit stressed the need for the wicketkeeper-batsman to exercise greater judgment. “He needs to understand what is required of him,” Rohit said, adding that it’s a matter of Pant assessing risk versus reward in different game situations. The captain confirmed conversations with Pant but avoided direct criticism, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness.
The defeat leaves India trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, with the final test starting in Sydney on January 3rd.
Meanwhile, Rohit addressed the controversial omission of Shubman Gill, clarifying that the decision to include all-rounder Washington Sundar wasn’t a personal one, but rather a strategic move to bolster the team’s bowling depth and batting order. He stressed that the team’s decisions are always made with the overall interests of the team in mind.
First Piper 