Former India cricketer Hemang Badani believes Rishabh Pant should not let his new vice-captaincy role affect the way he plays in the upcoming Test series against England.
According to Badani, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir should keep the message simple. He said, “Rishabh, tu apna game khel, forget that you are the vice captain of Team India.”
Pant to Lead India’s New Test Era
Rishabh Pant has officially become part of India’s Test leadership group for the first time. He steps into this position at a crucial moment, as Shubman Gill begins his captaincy stint.
India lost a massive amount of experience recently, with R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket. In total, nearly 300 Tests worth of experience disappeared overnight.
Even so, Pant’s presence gives Indian fans hope. His fearless batting has often rescued India, especially in overseas conditions.
Pant’s Test Credentials Remain Solid
Though he didn’t shine during India’s last tour to Australia, and even had a tough IPL 2025 season with Lucknow Super Giants, Pant remains one of India’s best red-ball batters.
His record speaks for itself — 1681 runs in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) at an average of 37.81, with centuries everywhere except New Zealand.
Badani pointed out that even in just five years, Pant has already played “some of the best knocks by an Indian in overseas conditions.”
Memorable Knock in England
During India’s last Test in England, Pant smashed 146 runs off 111 balls after the team was struggling at 98 for 5. It was his second Test hundred in England, showing his consistency there.
Pant made his international debut in Nottingham seven years ago and hit a six on just his second ball. That aggressive mindset is what makes him special.
Practice Shows Pant is in Rhythm
Leading up to the England series starting June 20, Pant looked sharp in training. At Lord’s, he reportedly dented the stadium roof. In Beckenham, his powerful sixes forced nearby residents to duck for cover.
This form suggests Pant is ready to go full throttle again.
Badani Warns Against Burdening Pant
Badani, who now coaches Delhi Capitals, said he wants to see Pant play freely, without the burden of vice-captaincy slowing him down.
He stated, “I genuinely hope it doesn’t change one bit… I don’t see any reason why you should try and change that.”
Let Pant Stay Pant
Badani believes Gambhir and the Indian team management must remind Pant to stay true to his style. He stressed that Pant became vice-captain not because he played safe, but because his bold and positive approach delivered results.
He added, “It’s important that someone like Gautam Gambhir, the head coach, has a chat with him and speaks to him and says, ‘Rishabh tu apna game khel.’ Don’t think too hard about captaincy, vice captaincy… none of that.”
Pant Likely to Bat at No.5
With senior players gone, changes in India’s batting line-up are certain. But Pant’s position at No.5 seems fixed. Badani feels this spot gives him the chance to put pressure back on bowlers.
He said, “You want to keep the bowling on the mat… rather than keep leaving balls and let them settle down into a good line and length.”
Freedom is Key to Pant’s Success
Badani believes the team management must let Pant play freely. He warned that if Pant is held back, his balance could be disrupted.
However, he added confidently, “He does have the right balance.” So the focus should be on letting him attack when needed and trusting his instincts.
