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Australian cricket has long been synonymous with a fierce, competitive spirit. Their mindset is characterized by a relentless pursuit of victory, a strong emphasis on physical fitness, and a never-say-die attitude. Australian players are often known for their aggressive tactics, both on and off the field. This “Aussie bravado” has fueled their success over the years, but it has also sometimes led to controversies and clashes with opponents. Despite these ups and downs, the Australian cricket team’s unique mindset remains a formidable force in the world of sport.
A dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, has captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide with his fearless approach to the game. But it seems he has also won over the admiration of two of Australia‘s top cricketers – Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. In a recent video, both Head and Marsh named this wicket keeper as the Indian cricketer they believe is most Australian.
The Aussie connection explained by Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh
Head, the Australian opener, praised Rishabh Pant‘s aggressive nature and expressed his belief that the Indian stumper would be “very enjoyable to play with.”
“The Indian cricketer I believe is most Australian would be Rishabh Pant. I think the way he goes about his aggressive nature, the way he goes about his work, he’d be very enjoyable to play with,” Head stated in a video of Star Sports.
Marsh, on the other hand, was impressed by Pant’s mix of aggression and relaxed persona, calling him a “ripping bloke” who he wishes was Australian.
“He’s a ripping bloke. I wish he was Australian. He’s obviously been through a lot the last few years. Hell of a comeback. He’s a positive guy, he’s still very young, he loves winning. He’s highly competitive for someone who, I guess, has the persona of being relaxed – always laughing and smiling. He has got that big smile,” Marsh added about the Indian wicketkeeper.
Pant’s connection with Australia goes beyond just his playing style. He has delivered some of his best performances against the Aussies in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In 7 Test matches against Australia, Pant has scored 624 runs at an impressive average of 62.40, including a memorable 159* in Sydney during the 2018-19 tour.
Also READ: Steve Smith picks the best fast bowler across formats ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
Competitive. Fierce. Effortless.#MitchellMarsh and #TravisHead believe #RishabhPant's fiery spirit and natural competitiveness would make him a perfect fit among the Aussies, setting him apart! 😬💪🏻 #ToughestRivalry
Watch #ToughestRivalry in action during #INDvAUSonStar… pic.twitter.com/Ls6vwjWDjC
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 25, 2024
A comeback for the ages
Pant’s recent comeback to red-ball cricket for India has been nothing short of sensational. After last playing a Test in December 2022, just days before his car accident, the southpaw made a triumphant return in the first Test against Bangladesh at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. He scored 39 and 109 in the match, helping India secure a convincing 280-run victory.
A fearless approach
Pant’s aggressive approach to batting has often been compared to the Australian style of play. He possesses an excellent record in Test cricket, having scored 2,419 runs in 34 matches at an average of 44.8, with six centuries and 11 half-centuries. His ability to counter-attack and turn the tide of a match has made him a valuable asset for the Indian team.
Looking ahead to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
With India set to tour Australia for five Tests as part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy from November 2024 to January 2025, Pant’s performances will be crucial to India’s success. His ability to score runs against the Aussies and his connection with the Australian style of play will undoubtedly be an advantage for the Indian team.
As Pant continues to impress with his performances and his Aussie-like persona, it’s clear that he has captured the attention and admiration of cricket fans and players alike. With his fearless approach and his ability to deliver in crunch situations, Pant is undoubtedly one of the most exciting cricketers to watch in the world today.
