Wriddhiman Saha urges everyone to give Pant some breathing space

Team India stumper, Rishabh Pant had a sensational time with the bat in Australia and was instrumental in India's historic Test series victory with a match-winning knock of 87 in the second innings of the final Test. India sealed the Border Gavaskar Trophy by a 2-1 margin after the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Pant was included in the Indian playing XI after the opening Test in Adelaide after Wriddhiman Saha had low returns with the bat. However, Pant’s inclusion became a headache for the captain as he kept dropping catches. His wicket-keeping skills were questioned time and again but what he did with the bat in the third, and the final Test made everyone sit up and notice the young talent.

Wriddhiman Saha has urged the fans, supporters and critics to give Pant some breathing space as no one learns Algebra in Class I.

"No one learns algebra in class I. You always go step by step. He is giving his best and will definitely improve. He has matured and proved himself. In the long run, it augurs well for the Indian team," he said of Pant who has often been found wanting behind the stumps.

Talking about the competition in the national team, Saha stated, "You can ask him (Pant), we have a friendly relationship and help each other whoever gets into the XI. Personally, there's no conflict with him."

"I don't' see who is No.1 or 2... Team will give a chance to those who do better. I will continue to do my job. Selection is not in my hands, it's up to the management."

Saha heaped praises on the 23-year-old youngster who played a stellar role in the final day of the final Test which helped India seal a memorable win.

"The way he has shown his intent after being sidelined from his favourite T20 and ODI formats were really exceptional."

Ever since his heroics in the Test series, people have again started comparing Pant with MS Dhoni but just like the man himself, Saha also says that no one can replace Dhoni and people should allow Pant to make a name for himself. 

"He goes about his job with a cool head. Like Virat, he too has full belief in his players. Unlike Virat, he never shows any excitement.

"Approach is a bit different, Rahane stays calm always, never loses temper. He knows well how to motivate the players. That is his success mantra."

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