Rishabh Pant faced mental breakdown after ‘stupid’ MCG dismissal, deleted WhatsApp, switched off phone in shame

Rishabh Pant faced mental breakdown after ‘stupid’ MCG dismissal, deleted WhatsApp, switched off phone in shame

**Rishabh Pant’s Response to Criticism: Uninstalling WhatsApp and Rebounding Stronger**

**Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter of Team India, recently made headlines not just for his on-field heroics but also for his off-field response to criticism. After facing backlash for his rash shot selection during the Melbourne Test against Australia, Pant took a bold step to distance himself from distractions.**

**Facing Criticism and Making Lifestyle Changes**

**During the Melbourne Test in Australia, Pant attempted a risky ramp shot in the first innings, which drew heavy criticism from former India captain Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar’s live remark calling the shot “stupid” went viral, sparking a debate about Pant’s shot selection. In response to the criticism, Pant decided to make some lifestyle changes to reset himself.**

**According to a report by the Times of India, Pant uninstalled WhatsApp and kept his phone switched off for most of the time, only using it when necessary to contact someone. This move was seen as a way for Pant to focus on his game and eliminate distractions that might affect his performance on the field.**

**From IPL Disappointment to Test Triumph**

**Pant’s journey in 2025 saw ups and downs, starting with a lacklustre IPL campaign where he led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) but failed to have a significant impact with the bat. Despite scoring a century in the final league match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Pant’s overall performance in the tournament fell short of expectations.**

**However, Pant turned the tables during the first Test against England at Headingley. In a remarkable display of batting prowess, he smashed centuries in both innings with scores of 134 and 118. This feat made Pant only the second wicketkeeper in Test history to achieve twin centuries in a single match, showcasing his talent and resilience.**

**Setting Records and Pushing Boundaries**

**With his impressive performance in Headingley, Pant also set a new record for the most Test hundreds by a designated Indian wicketkeeper, surpassing the legendary MS Dhoni’s tally of six centuries. Pant now leads the list with a total of seven Test hundreds, ahead of Dhoni and Wriddhiman Saha, who have also made significant contributions behind the stumps.**

**Commitment to Fitness and Excellence**

**Former India strength and conditioning coach Sohum Desai praised Pant’s dedication to fitness and improvement. Desai mentioned that Pant would engage in intense training sessions without worrying about fatigue or rest periods, showcasing his determination to constantly better himself.**

**Desai shared, “Pant has so much reserve that he will be fine for at least a year without having to do anything extraordinary. That’s why you see him moving around so well despite scoring two hundreds and keeping wickets for so long in the Headingley Test.” Pant’s commitment to excellence and growth has been evident in his recent performances, proving that he has what it takes to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket.**

**In conclusion, Rishabh Pant’s response to criticism by uninstalling WhatsApp and delivering stellar performances on the field highlights his resilience, dedication, and ability to bounce back stronger in the face of challenges. As he continues to push boundaries and set new records, Pant remains a key player to watch in the Indian cricket team’s lineup.**

Embracing Change and Growth

Amidst the pressures of international cricket, Rishabh Pant’s decision to uninstall WhatsApp and focus on his game reflects a mature approach to handling criticism and improving himself. This move not only symbolizes a break from distractions but also signifies Pant’s willingness to embrace change and prioritize personal growth. By recognizing the need to disconnect from external noise and concentrate on his craft, Pant demonstrates a level of self-awareness that is essential for success in the competitive world of professional sports.

Striking a Balance: Cricket and Leadership

While Pant’s journey in the IPL might have had its challenges, his resilience and ability to bounce back in the Test arena showcase his multifaceted talent. Leading a new franchise in the IPL and shouldering the responsibilities of wicketkeeping and batting demand a delicate balance between individual performance and leadership. Pant’s experience in navigating these dual roles not only highlights his cricketing skills but also underscores his potential as a future leader in the Indian cricket team.

Legacy and Inspiration

As Rishabh Pant continues to break records and push boundaries in cricket, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and fans alike. By surpassing iconic figures like MS Dhoni in terms of Test centuries, Pant cements his place in cricketing history and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. His commitment to fitness, relentless pursuit of excellence, and ability to overcome setbacks embody the spirit of determination and resilience that defines a true champion.

Looking Ahead

As Rishabh Pant’s career trajectory continues to soar, one thing is certain – he is a player to watch out for in the evolving landscape of international cricket. With his dynamic style of play, unwavering dedication, and capacity for growth, Pant has the potential to leave an indelible mark on the sport. As he navigates the highs and lows of professional cricket, one can only anticipate what new milestones and achievements lie ahead for this rising star in the Indian cricketing firmament.

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