Rishabh Pant expressed visible frustration with Kuldeep Yadav during Day 4 of the India vs South Africa second Test in Guwahati, as the left-arm wrist-spinner took too long to bowl his deliveries, resulting in warnings from the umpires. Former India coach Ravi Shastri also voiced his concern over the delay, emphasizing the impact on India’s over-rate.
Rishabh Pant’s Frustration Over Slow Bowling
Pant’s irritation peaked when Kuldeep bowled the 48th over of South Africa’s innings. According to ICC rules, fielding teams must start the next over within 60 seconds. First two violations result in warnings; the third triggers a five-run penalty.
Pant was overheard on the stump mic telling Kuldeep, “Pehla ball daal de yaar, aisa mat kar yaar, baar baar nahi bolunga main yeh” (Bowl the first ball. Don’t do this. I’m not going to repeat this time and again), highlighting his growing impatience.
Ravi Shastri Supports Pant’s Reaction
Commentating from the box, Shastri explained, “You can hear what Rishabh Pant is saying. It can be frustrating. He has been warned for the time taken between overs. As a bowler, you should know your field. One look should be enough for the fielder to know their position, rather than gesturing every two balls.”
Shastri added that timely bowling is critical, especially when warnings have been issued, and noted that Pant’s frustration was justified.
Previous Instances of Reprimand
This was not the first time Pant scolded Kuldeep for slow deliveries. On Day 1, Pant was heard saying on the stump mic, “Yaar, 30 seconds ka timer hai. Ghar pe khel rahe ho kya? Ek ball daal jaldi” (The timer is on. Are you playing at home? Bowl quickly). Pant also reminded the spinner that the team had already received warnings and criticized the delay, saying, “Pura ek over thodi na chahiye. Mazak bana rakha hai Test cricket ko” (Do you need an entire over? You’ve made a joke of Test cricket).
Kuldeep’s Bowling Contribution
Despite the reprimands, Kuldeep Yadav was India’s highest wicket-taker in the first innings of the second Test, claiming four wickets. Pant’s scolding underscores the balance a captain must maintain between encouraging performance and enforcing discipline, especially in high-pressure Test matches.
Key Takeaways
Pant’s strict approach reflects the challenges of maintaining discipline and over-rate efficiency in modern Test cricket. While Kuldeep has been effective with the ball, timely execution and adherence to ICC rules are critical to avoid penalties and ensure smooth progress of the game.
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