Rishabh Pant can be a match-winner in T20 cricket: VVS Laxman

Rishabh Pant can be a match-winner in T20 cricket: VVS Laxman.

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman feels Rishabh Pant can be a vital cog for India’s T20 side and wants the management to give him a long run before any further judgement in his play. Keeping in mind the ICC T20 World Cup later this year, fielding Pant in the upcoming five T20Is is extremely important.

The 32-years old wicketkeeper-batsman answered the critics with his bat and scored crucial runs for India in the test format. Playing sensibly, Pant ensured victory against Australia and England in the recent two series.

Pant was dropped from the limited-overs squad after consecutive failures. He was also not named in the Australia tour white-ball leg. However, due to his recent innings and performances, the dynamics are totally different now. The selectors have considered the left-handed batsman for the upcoming five-game T20I series against England.

“We have seen him play under pressure for Delhi Capitals and win matches. As a left-hand batsman, he gives that option where the opposition captain can feel the heat once he gets going,” said Laxman said on Star Sports show ‘Game Plan’.

“Hopefully no one judges him by one or two performances. Keeping in mind the ICC World Cup, you have to give him a long run. Once he adapts and feels security in his position, he can play some tremendous cricket for you and win games.”

India and England will lock horns for the five-game T20I series in Ahmedabad, starting March 12.

Laxman further added he can also play the role of finisher along with Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja in the side.

“Indian team has been overdependent on Hardik and Jadeja. Pant can fit in that slot and overcome this dependence with his range of short plays.”

The former cricketer also lauded Mumbai batsman Suryakumar Yadav, who has earned his maiden call for India’s national T20 side.

“He is a brilliant player, he deserved it. Surya is a role model for many youngsters who tend to lose patience if they don’t get a quick call for India. He kept playing and scored massive runs in the domestic circuit and waited for his chance.”

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