‘Needs to play with more responsibility’ – Suresh Raina comes up with crucial piece of advice for Rishabh Pant to succeed in ODI format

Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has given Rishabh Pant a crucial piece of advice to do well in the 50-over format. Pant has been named as the frontline wicketkeeper and batter for India for the upcoming ODI series against England and Champions Trophy 2025. So far Pant has played 31 ODI matches and scored 871 runs with one century and five half-centuries. 

Speaking on Star Sports, Suresh Raina said “He has improved a lot on his wicketkeeping; Rishabh Pant needs to play with more responsibility because this is a 50-over tournament. In the upcoming tournament with England you've got 3 One Days, this will be a good opportunity for Rishabh Pant."

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar during the press conference on Saturday said “Rishabh Pant is the first-choice wicketkeeper and batter for Champions Trophy 2025”. This ended any potential debate regarding who could keep wickets for the side with KL Rahul also present. 

Suresh Raina urges Pant to show more responsibility 

During his chat with Star Sports, Suresh Raina went on to say “He has to tell himself that if I play fifty deliveries then I can score 80-100 runs but it is important for him to spend some time. If he makes a mistake then that's going to cost a lot because he has that talent, he has got that ability, he is going to be the X factor for the Indian team."

The 38-year-old also added “It depends on how you play; I think if Yashasvi does not play in the top order then Rishabh Pant will have a very important role, he can bat at the fourth position he can also come into bat before Hardik because if Rishabh goes on to play 40-50 deliveries, then he can finish off the game”

Former batter Mohammad Kaif meanwhile, praised the young wicketkeeper while speaking on his YouTube channel. The 44-year-old said “With Rishabh Pant, people have their emotions attached. He is a big match-winner in Tests. Who can forget his knock at the Gabba and the hundred in South Africa? He performs well in overseas conditions. He is a good wicketkeeper and he has almost reached the same level as MS Dhoni”