Legendary Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy recently shared his thoughts on India's Rishabh Pant, describing him as a "work in progress" following his remarkable return to international cricket after surviving a near-fatal car crash in December 2022. Pant, who was initially thought to be unable to keep wickets again due to the severity of his injuries, has defied expectations with his acrobatic performances behind the stumps since his comeback in September 2024.
Healy acknowledged Pant's improvements but pointed out areas where he still needs refinement. Specifically, Healy noted that Pant sometimes makes a wrong initial movement, leading to dropped catches. Healy explained that some wicketkeepers tend to move slightly to their left first and then press from there, whereas it’s better to stay still and initiate the movement slightly earlier to ensure proper positioning when the ball is delivered. Healy believes that Pant can improve with more practice and refinement of his technique.
Pant's wicketkeeping has been solid overall, with the 27-year-old taking 19 catches in three Test matches, although he has also dropped a few chances, including one from Nathan McSweeney late on Day 1 of the second Test in Adelaide.
However, his performance with the bat has been less impressive, with Pant managing only 96 runs across five innings in the ongoing series, at an average of just 19.20 and a highest score of 37. As India heads to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the fourth Test, Pant’s contribution with the bat will be crucial if India is to take the lead in the series, which is currently tied 1-1.
