Rishabh Pant Punished Himself After ‘Stupid Shot’ Criticism

Rishabh Pant, India’s young wicketkeeper-batsman and vice-captain, is in the news again, this time, for a good reason. Although he scored centuries in both innings of the Leeds Test against England, Pant’s effort could not produce a victory for India. Yet his comeback was a story of mental toughness after being severely criticized earlier this year.

Rishabh Pant’s Heroics in the Leeds Test Go in Vain

In the just-concluded Test between India and England at Headingley, Rishabh Pant made centuries in both matches, highlighting his class and shutting down his critics.

However, even with his outstanding performance, Team India lost as England chased the target and won by 5 wickets. Pant’s brilliance was highlighted, but he failed to benefit the team.

Poor Show in Border-Gavaskar Trophy Triggered Self-Reflection

Earlier this year, in 2025, Rishabh Pant endured a poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. He managed only 255 runs in five Tests with an average of 28.33, scoring only 24 fours and 6 sixes in the series. Famous for his aggressive and fearless approach to batting, Pant’s choice of shots was criticized, especially during the Melbourne Test.

‘Stupid Shot’ That Triggered Humongous Backlash

During the Melbourne Test, Pant tried a reckless ramp shot and got dismissed cheaply. His selection of shots came under severe criticism, with cricket great Sunil Gavaskar terming him “stupid, stupid, stupid” on air—a video that went viral in a matter of minutes. The public and media glare hit Pant hard and was a turning point in his mental frame of mind for playing the game.

Rishabh Pant’s Self-Imposed Digital Detox

As per a Times of India report, Rishabh Pant self-punished in a rather unusual manner after the Melbourne match. In March 2025, he uninstalled WhatsApp from his phone and kept his phone switched off for long hours. He turned on his phone only when strictly necessary and opted to keep himself isolated to concentrate on his game and mindset.

In another dent in his confidence, Pant did not feature in any of the matches during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, although he was included in the team. India won the trophy by beating New Zealand, but Pant was on the bench for the entire tournament.

Comeback with a Statement in the Leeds Test

Rishabh Pant’s brilliance with back-to-back centuries in the Leeds Test has re-established him as India’s most precious red-ball cricketer. His comeback from criticism and bench warming has not only impressed the fans but also shown his maturity as well as mental strength.
Final Thoughts: Rishabh Pant’s Redemption Journey

Rishabh Pant’s return tale is a strong reminder of how downfalls can be the prelude to a big return. From being called “stupid” for a senseless shot to being India’s most consistent batter in the Leeds Test, Pant has used criticism as the driving force behind his resurgence.

ALSO READ: ICC Sanctions Demerit Points To Daren Sammy For A Rant In Press Conference