"When Rishabh Pant Is At The Crease, Everyone Is Scared": Ajaz Patel to NDTV
Patel admitted that Pant’s presence at the crease was a source of concern for the New Zealand team. "When Rishabh Pant is in the crease, everyone is scared," he said, acknowledging the intensity Pant brings to the game.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel praised India's wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his fearless approach during their 3-0 Test series win over India. Despite India’s overall underperformance, Pant stood out for his aggressive and fearless batting, particularly in the third Test at Wankhede. Although Pant’s efforts were not enough to secure a win for India, with a controversial dismissal leaving them 25 runs short, he earned admiration from both sides for his resilience.
Patel admitted that Pant’s presence at the crease was a source of concern for the New Zealand team. "When Rishabh Pant is in the crease, everyone is scared," he said, acknowledging the intensity Pant brings to the game. Patel also shared that the New Zealand team specifically targeted Pant during the series. "We targeted Rishabh Pant the most," he revealed, noting that Pant’s fearlessness and aggressive batting made him a significant challenge. "He plays his game, no matter what. His philosophy is that if you get out, no problem, but while you are at the crease, you do what you want to."
Patel, who took 15 wickets in the series, also offered his thoughts on India's upcoming Test tour of Australia. He emphasized that India’s players, some of whom have experience in Australian conditions, need to start with a fresh mindset. "Conditions in Australia would be different," Patel said, urging the team to believe in their abilities. "The important thing is to keep the trust and belief alive, focus on what’s next, and move on from what has happened."
