India head coach Gautam Gambhir has defended Rishabh Pant following his removal as India's Test vice-captain, saying the wicketkeeper-batter should continue playing his natural game while improving his understanding of match situations.
Speaking ahead of India's upcoming Test assignment, Gambhir dismissed suggestions that Pant needs to change his aggressive approach. Instead, he stressed that the team values Pant's fearless style and wants him to remain true to his strengths as a player.
Gambhir backs Pant's natural approach
Pant's recent struggles, including a disappointing IPL 2026 season, led to questions about his place in India's leadership group. The selectors subsequently handed the Test vice-captaincy to KL Rahul, triggering debate over Pant's future role within the team.
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Addressing the issue, Gambhir told reporters in the pre-match press conference, “See, responsibility is only for playing for India. The rest of everything else is a by-product. When you start playing for India, you don't think about being a vice- captain. You think about doing good for India. So going from one to the other is only a by-product. And ultimately, everyone is judged on performance. Be it me, be it the support staff, be it any player. Ultimately, that is what international cricket is all about. And as far as Rishabh is concerned, we will expect him to be the way he is.”
Leadership role remains intact
Despite losing the vice-captaincy, Pant continues to be viewed as a senior figure in the Indian dressing room. The coaching staff believes his experience, energy and influence remain valuable to the team.
🚨 GAUTAM GAMBHIR MASSIVE STATEMENT ON RISHABH PANT SAI SUDHARSHAN AND NEW JOIN BIWLERS 🚨
— Cricket Central (@CricketCentrl) June 5, 2026
- Sai hasn't received a consistent run of opportunities in the past, but we are committed to giving him an extended run in the team.
- We have the ability, belief, and strategic approach… pic.twitter.com/MLVmzAFZF1
“It's not like we will tell him that you have to curb your game. But in international cricket, it is very important to play the situation. It is important to read the situation. At that time, what kind of situation the team is in, what kind of situation it demands and what kind of shot to play. But it's not like any player has been told to play a completely different game than their natural game. Be it test cricket, one-day cricket, or T20 cricket. The ultimate aim is to make a run and take a wicket. You can never lose that. No matter how you make it, it's up to you." Gautam Gambhir told reporters in a press conference.
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India's management has indicated that Pant's leadership qualities extend beyond an official title. He is expected to continue guiding younger players and contributing to the team's decision-making process on and off the field.
As India prepares for their next Test challenge, the focus will be on Pant's performances with the bat and behind the stumps. The team remains confident that he can rediscover his best form while maintaining the aggressive style that has made him one of India's most exciting match-winners.
