Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has issued a clear message to Rishabh Pant, urging him to show some respect to the bowlers during the crucial first half hour of play. The talented wicketkeeper-batsman has struggled to make a mark in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, managing only 96 runs across five innings. With the pressure mounting for him to deliver a significant performance in the upcoming Tests at MCG and SCG, he has yet to score a fifty on this tour and has faced challenges against the swinging ball, much like his fellow Indian teammates.

Pant tends to attack bowlers right from the get-go, which has been evident in this series. However, Gavaskar suggested that he should take a moment to settle in and assess the situation before unleashing his aggressive style of play.

"What Rishabh Pant needs to do, like everyone else, is to respect the first half hour; he should take a little time when he comes in, unless India is in a commanding position like 525 for 3, then he can go for it," Gavaskar mentioned on Star Sports.

In his five innings over three Tests, the 27-year-old has posted scores of 37, 1, 21, 28, and 9.

Pant, who famously played a match-winning innings at the Gabba in 2021, has shown glimpses of his talent in the first innings at Perth and during the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, but he hasn't been able to turn those starts into substantial scores.

"...the bowlers angle the ball across him. Pat Cummins and even Josh Hazlewood have posed some challenges; Scott Boland will also be a tough opponent since he bowls in that same area," he added.

Matthew Hayden Observes Lack of Counter-Punching from Rishabh Pant

Australian cricket legend Matthew Hayden, who openly admires Rishabh Pant, encouraged the Indian batsman to fully embrace his fearless style, suggesting it could really turn the tide for the team.

"I’ve always been a fan of his. He’s definitely one of a kind, no doubt about it. I’d love to see him really tap into that because he should be stepping up in situations where, like I said, there are plenty of runs to be had; that’s the ideal spot for him.

"But it’s also a great opportunity for Team India. Similar to Rohit Sharma, we haven’t really seen Rishabh counter-punching much, but he shouldn’t hold back in these conditions. I believe that when you let go of fear, it opens up amazing chances for both Rishabh and Team India," Hayden added.

India is set to take on Australia in the third Test at the MCG starting December 26.

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