Rishabh is a person who is always ready to learn: Sister Sakshi Pant [Interview]

Cricket rules the Indian imagination. It has that special place in the hearts of many in the nation. It is not just celebrated and worshipped for the battles it exudes but for the after stories it creates. One of the stories that this sport unveiled that has now cemented a place in almost every ardent cricket fan’s lives, is that of Rishabh Pant.

He moved from city to city in his early days to play cricket and excel at the sport. Just like every success story, Pant’s life too has been a roller coaster of a ride. The journey from the “Dhoni..Dhoni..Dhoni” chants to the “Pant..Pant…Pant” chants now displays the rise of the keeper-batter who stood firm against all the odds.

If one is playing at a venue where the hosts had a dominating record, it is certainly going to build pressure. But for Rishabh Pant, that is exactly the way how he likes it. He played an impressive knock of 89* and hit the winning runs off Josh Hazlewood to fashion India’s victory at the Gabba where the Australians were unbeaten for the last 33 years.

From the heroics in the domestic circuit, then in the IPL, and eventually, for team India, Rishabh Pant has walked a long path. His odyssey unfolds waves of emotions. However, just like a dish needs all the ingredients to make it a perfect one, a successful journey needs a few elements that would help one to sail past the hurdles. Undoubtedly, family is that important link in the chain that plays a crucial role in holding things together.

And here’s one of the family members of Rishabh Pant, expressing about the keeper-batter’s journey. In an exclusive interview with CricTracker, Rishabh Pant’s sister Sakshi Pant spoke about his early days, struggles, what makes the batter stand out from others, his quest to fulfill his father’s dream, and a lot more.

Here are some excerpts from the interview:

He started playing cricket at an early age. Talk us through the early days of his career.

Rishabh started playing cricket at a very early age. He used to travel from Roorkee (hometown) to Delhi for weekend cricket coaching classes. On weekdays, he attended school and practice in our school ground only in evening classes. It was a really hectic schedule for a little child to manage school, studies, travel for coaching but he was very active and never got tired of doing it altogether.

It was his father’s dream to watch him play at the highest level. What were his contributions to Rishabh’s game?

Yes, it was our father’s dream to watch him play for India. I remember one day when Rishabh was 12-13 years old, my father was watching a random cricket match and he said one day my son will be here. He was so sure of this thing. Talking about contribution, my father himself was a wicketkeeper-batsman. He guided him and pushed him to cricket. He was the person who made him practice daily sometimes in the playground and sometimes on our terrace.

Any childhood cricketing tale or mischiefs of Rishabh that you could share with us.

Rishabh used to be the same behind the wickets. He always used to do commentary from that time. Everyone used to laugh a lot. Whenever there used to be any tournament in school he used to say before the start of the match that all prizes will be taken by me and yes he did that.

What was the reaction of the family when Rishabh made his way into the IPL?

We were so happy and proud because at the same time he scored so well. We were dancing with joy. I think this will be the same reaction from any family. We are always proud of him.

What according to you is the one thing that sets Rishabh apart from others?

Rishabh is a different person. I think not everyone can understand him. One thing according to me is he talks to himself and improves whatever is needed. He is always ready to learn new things.

Who do you think has the greatest impact on Rishabh’s life?

Our Father.

What was the first conversation in the family when Rishabh received the India call-up?

We were shocked because we always knew this will happen one day but not this soon. We were so happy so proud. My mom got so emotional. My father distributed sweets everywhere. That day will be always cherished. The best day for the whole family.

How does Rishabh deal with stress, pressure, and criticism?

He makes himself calm, he spends time with family and friends, he tries not to concentrate on that. It’s a part of his life I think.

When he is on a break from cricket what does he enjoys doing the most?

He loves to travel, he plays PlayStation. Spending time with family and friends and eating lots of good homemade food.

Being a cricketer brings in both good and challenging days. What does Rishabh do when he is struggling to score runs?

Rishabh is a person who is always ready to learn. He concentrates more and works on himself.

What changes have you noticed in Rishabh ever since he has started playing at the highest level?

I didn’t notice any changes but yes he is more mature, calmer, and very much focused now. He balances cricket and family very well.

With your birthday coming on 24th Sep, is there any special gift Rishabh has planned for you?

My birthday gift from his side is always the same thing for a very long time and that is a secret between brother and sister. So can’t disclose.