Cape Town: India’s Test captain Virat Kohli on Monday said that he has held talks with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant during a practice session ahead of the third Test starting at the Newlands Cricket Ground from Tuesday. Kohli said that Pant is such a player who understands his mistakes and will improve them in future.
In the second innings of the second Test in Johannesburg, Pant was dismissed for zero by a poor shot off Kagiso Rabada, which drew considerable criticism.
Kohli said on Monday, “We have talked to Pant about his shot in the practice session. At the same time, the batsmen know what kind of shot he got out after playing. As a player, everyone accepts that responsibility. Have to do it. I think progress will start from there. We have made mistakes in critical situations in our careers.”
Kohli said, “We got out due to pressure or the skill of the bowler. It is important to understand what was the mindset and decision of the player at that time and where did that player make mistakes. Once we find our mistake , then we can understand not to repeat it again.”
Kohli also recalled the advice given by former India captain MS Dhoni on mistakes in international cricket.
He said, “MS Dhoni gave me very good advice in the beginning. He once told me that there should be a gap of at least 7-8 months between repeating one mistake after the other. That’s when you will have a long career in international cricket. There could be a career and I want some similar improvement in Pant as well. I know Pant will correct his mistakes quickly.”
Mohammad Siraj will be unavailable due to injury in the decider in Cape Town.
Talking about his availability for the third Test, Kohli declared himself fit.
“Yes, I am absolutely fit. Siraj is still recovering from his injury in the last match. Currently, I don’t think he will be able to play in the third Test,” the captain said.
With Siraj unavailable, Ishant Sharma or Umesh Yadav may be included in the playing XI.
first published:Jan. 10, 2022, 8:22 p.m.
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