Pant factor could prove to be decisive in England

Going into a tough series under a new skipper, role of Pant the vice-captain, keeper and batter will be vital, say experts

- Sanjeev K Samyal

MUMBAI: He may have had his ups and downs, but there's no denying that Rishabh Pant is the most dashing player in this Indian cricket team. When it comes to setting the tempo and finding a way out of tough situations, the left-handed batter is the go-to man. When in his elements, he is daunted by nothing.

There are many examples, but one will suffice - Brisbane. The final Test of the 2021-22 series against Australia saw one of the most spectacular performances by a player in modern cricket. On the last day of the game and series at the Gabba, it was impossible to choose a winner.

But Pant defied the odds to smash an unbeaten 89 and steer a heavily depleted India home chasing a big target of 328, completing back-to-back series wins in Australia.

The stocky Delhi cricketer loves the adrenaline rush that comes with a big test. England, who India face in a five-Test series from June 20, know that well. Pant first served notice of his daring strokeplay in Eng on Test debut seven years ago.

On the last day of the final game in 2018, in the company of KL Rahul, Pant launched a stunning assault on the England bowlers, blazing to 114 (146 b, 15x4, 4x6) while adding 204 runs for the sixth wicket. India fell short of an improbable target of 464, but Pant provided the world a first glimpse of his capab Staying true to his positive style, his career is studded with such gems.