Pant, who famously scripted a match-winning knock at the Gabba in 2021, has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled to make a significant impact in the ongoing series.
The 27-year-old has managed scores of 37, 1, 21, 28, and 9 in his five innings across three Tests so far.
Known for his aggressive approach, Pant has often prioritised attacking shots regardless of the match situation. His adventurous decision to charge down the pitch against pacer Scott Boland on the very first ball of his innings in the Adelaide day-night Test drew considerable attention.
“What Rishabh Pant has to do, like everybody else, respect the first half an hour; respect a little bit when he gets in there, whatever the position, unless, of course, India is 525 for 3; then he can tee off,” Gavaskar told Star Sports.
Commenting on the challenges posed by Australian bowlers, Gavaskar added, “… they get the ball to angle across. Pat Cummins and even (Josh) Hazlewood give him a little bit of a problem; Scott Boland will give him a little bit of a problem because Boland bowls around that area as well.”
Australia were restricted to 311/6 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test after Jasprit Bumrah sprung a remarkable late comeback.
