Ajaz Patel Reveals Encounter With Rishabh Pant During New Zealand Series: “We Targeted Him the Most… He Doesn’t Fear Anything”

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Cric News India

November 5, 2024 0 1008

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Patel Reveals Challenges Against Pant

Ajaz Patel reflected on the difficulties he faced bowling to Rishabh Pant during New Zealand’s 3-0 Test series win over India.

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel has shared insights on the challenges he faced while bowling to India’s star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant during the recent three-match Test series. Patel stood out for New Zealand, notably taking 11/160 in the third Test in Mumbai. While many Indian batters struggled against his variations, Pant attacked him successfully in both innings at the Wankhede Stadium.

In an interview with NDTV Sports, Patel praised Pant’s fearless approach and adaptability. “When Rishabh Pant is at the crease, everyone is scared. We targeted him the most in this series. He doesn’t fear anything and plays his game regardless of the situation. His philosophy is to do what he wants while at the crease, and if he gets out, it’s no problem,” Patel said.

Patel then explained how Pant’s aggressive style forced him to constantly adapt. “I had a great battle with him in this Mumbai Test. When he came down the track, I had to bowl quicker and flatter. When I slowed the pace, knowing he was in the crease, he used that to his advantage. It pushed me to change my strategy again,” he stated.

Patel also highlighted Pant’s ability to adapt his batting to different conditions across the series in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai. “He read the conditions and adjusted his style of play. He batted differently in each game, which shows his understanding of the game and conditions,” Patel noted.

Pant’s Contributions in Mumbai Test

Pant played a crucial role in the second innings of the Mumbai Test, scoring 64 off 57 balls with nine fours and a six. However, Patel managed to dismiss him with the help of a controversial third-umpire decision.

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Following Pant’s dismissal, India’s lower order collapsed, leading to them being bowled out for 121. This handed New Zealand a 25-run victory and sealed a historic 3-0 series whitewash over India. Pant ended the series as India’s top scorer, amassing 261 runs, including three half-centuries.