Kolkata, Feb 19: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant says the team is looking at exploring as many options as possible in the build-up to the T20 World Cup, which is to take place in eight month’s time.
Pant, who was appointed vice-captain in the absence of KL Rahul for the ongoing T20 series against the West Indies, smashed a brisk half-century in the team’s win in the second game here on Friday night. Among other questions, he was also asked about the plans for the T20 World Cup in Australia.
“There’s still time for the World Cup, so the plan is to try out as many options as possible,” the 24-year-old said at the post-match media interaction.
“We are trying to find out which positions suit whom and how they can benefit the team. So we’re trying out several options, whatever seems right for the team eventually will be final.”
In the absence of the rested pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, seamer Harshal Patel held his nerves to help India emerge winner. Pant said the plan was to keep the ball outside off stump.
“There’s obviously pressure in the game, but as individuals, we tend to focus on our skill rather than thinking too much,” Pant added.
With Hardik Pandya unavailable, India are looking to use all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer as a finisher. Venkatesh played an 18-ball 33-run cameo. He, along with Pant, put on a 76-run partnership from 35 balls to take India to 186/5.
“Yes, in the IPL he opened for KKR, but we can’t be thinking too much about that. In the Indian team we are just trying to find different positions for different people. He used to play down the order (for Madhya Pradesh).
“When you come down the order, you know the situation. He (Venkatesh) is someone who reads the situation really well. He is a mature cricketer,” Pant was all praise for Venkatesh. (PTI)
