Rishabh Pant, who faced considerable criticism for his shot selection during both innings of the Melbourne Test, has yet to fully harness his potential. Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes that once Pant achieves this, he could score a century in every Test match. Ashwin emphasized that Pant must strike a balance between aggressive and defensive play to enhance his consistency, noting that the left-handed batsman possesses a wide array of shots capable of altering the match's outcome within a few overs.

Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel, "It is essential to guide him on whether he should adopt a solid batting approach or play with intent. Although he hasn't accumulated many runs, his performance does not reflect a player struggling for runs. He has ample time ahead of him. Rishabh Pant has yet to tap into his full potential."

"He has access to all the shots—reverse sweeps, slog sweeps, and more—but the challenge lies in the fact that these are all high-risk options. If he focuses on his defensive skills, he will undoubtedly score runs in every match, provided he faces 200 balls. The key is to discover that middle ground. If he can integrate all aspects of his game, he will consistently score 100 runs per match. He must identify that balance," the esteemed off-spinner stated.

In the SCG Test, Pant exhibited contrasting performances, scoring 40 runs off 98 balls in the first innings, followed by a rapid 61 runs off 33 balls in the second. However, he was unable to replicate his remarkable performance from the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he led India to a historic victory at the Gabba, previously regarded as Australia's stronghold.

While Pant is often recognized for his aggressive batting style, Ashwin expressed that he was not surprised by the keeper's resilient innings in the first innings. 

"I have always been taught the importance of perseverance. In Sydney, he showcased two distinct innings within a single match. Despite being hit around, he managed to score 40 runs, which may be the least acknowledged innings of Rishabh Pant. This is quite unjust."

"In the second innings, he delivered a spectacular fifty, garnering significant acclaim. However, many overlooked his first innings and instead lauded him for his performance in the second," Ashwin concluded.

Ashwin asserts that Rishabh Pant possesses the most effective defensive technique

Ashwin praised Pant's defensive skills, asserting that he ranks among the finest in this area. He placed Pant alongside Joe Root and Steve Smith as the top batsmen of the past seven years, a period during which batting has become notably more challenging, leading to a decline in averages.

"It is important to recognize that Rishabh Pant seldom gets dismissed while employing a defensive technique. He possesses one of the most effective defences in world cricket. Given the increasing difficulty of maintaining a solid defence, he stands out with his soft hands. I would be willing to change my name if anyone can provide evidence of Pant being dismissed while defending on ten occasions," Ashwin remarked.

"I have bowled to him extensively in the nets, and he rarely gets out; he does not edge the ball or fall victim to LBW. His defensive technique is exceptional. I have attempted to convey this to him. There is a perception that Rishabh plays too many aggressive shots, but he must adapt to the demands of Test cricket," Ashwin continued.

"Test cricket requires an approach tailored to the situation. Over the past seven years, batting has become significantly more difficult, particularly from 2018 to 2025. During the World Test Championship cycle, batting averages have notably declined.

"Joe Root is performing at an elite level. Similarly, Williamson and Smith have both regained their form. It is evident that Rishabh Pant has competed during these challenging times."

Ashwin, who recently retired from international cricket amid the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, expressed his intention to continue playing the sport.

"My journey as an Indian cricketer has concluded, but my journey as a cricketer is far from over. I believe there is still more to achieve in that regard.

"I plan to share my personal experiences over time. In fact, I aspire to document my entire journey as an Indian cricketer."

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