In a candid conversation, Rishabh Pant opens up about the challenges he faced early in his international career, particularly the burden of being labeled as MS Dhoni’s successor. Despite enduring tough times and facing crowd chants of ‘Dhoni Dhoni,’ Pant credits his mentorship with Dhoni for guiding him through the pressure.
Pant, currently recovering from a life-threatening car crash, revealed moments of vulnerability during his initial struggles. “I used to really feel very bad. I used to go back to my room and cry at 20-21 years of age. Under stress, I couldn’t breathe,” Pant shared in a ‘Star Sports’ series documenting his recovery.
Despite the external pressure, Pant emphasized the strong bond he shares with Dhoni, describing the former captain as his go-to man for everything from cricketing advice to life skills. The personal relationship between the two players has remained unscathed, showcasing Dhoni’s role as a mentor in Pant’s career.
Pant expressed difficulty explaining the depth of his connection with Dhoni, stating, “I always find it difficult to explain my relationship with MS Dhoni. There are some with whom you can talk freely. I discuss everything with MSD. I have learned so much from him.”
Addressing the constant comparisons with Dhoni, Pant expressed confusion and emphasized the unfairness of such scrutiny, especially early in his career. He questioned the need for comparisons, highlighting the vast difference in experience between himself and a legend like Dhoni.
Reflecting on his entry into the Indian team, Pant expressed gratitude towards senior players like Yuvraj Singh for creating a welcoming atmosphere. “They make every new player very comfortable. This is the culture of the Indian team,” he added.
As Pant continues his journey of recovery, the narrative underscores the resilience of a young cricketer navigating the challenges of expectation and comparison on his path to establishing himself in the Indian cricketing landscape.
