'What Rishabh Pant has done for India in last 2-3 months, no one would ever do in a lifetime': India coach Ravi Shastri

India head coach Ravi Shastri applauded what Rishabh Pant has done in the last few months, and revealed the hard work the 23-year had put in to get back into shape and form.

Indian cricket fans have found their new hero in dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant. The left-handed batsman was pegged to be MS Dhoni's replacement early on in his career, and after some explosive innings in the Indian Premier League, Pant received his international call. But it was not smooth sailing for the youngster, as, in 2019 and 2020, Pant faced flak for inconsistent performances and poor work behind the stumps.

Risahabh Pant and Ravi Shastri.(File)

After a poor show in the Indian Premier League 2020 for Delhi Capitals, Pant was not picked for the limited-overs series in Australia. But he was included in the playing XI for the 2nd Test Down Under, and he made most of the opportunities. Pant's innings of 91 and 89* in the 3rd and the 4th Test against Australia showcased how he can be a match-winner for the team even in the toughest of conditions.

Pant continued his form in the home series against England and after scoring a crucial hundred in Ahmedabad in the 4th Test, the left-hander is garnering praises from all corners. India head coach Ravi Shastri applauded what Pant has done in the last few months, and revealed the hard work the 23-year had put in to get back into shape and form.

"At 21, 22, or 23, I had similar success, so I can relate to as I scored hundreds overseas. What you can never take away is exuberance of youth. It's only when the baggage comes of being a known quantity and that's when life starts," Shastri told reporters at a virtual press conference, as quoted by news agency PTI.

"Rishabh Pant, he came in after IPL with a lot of baggage and that showed in his size and he had to lose that (weight) which he did. He worked his backside off. I can tell you that he has trained harder than anyone else, and results are not just for him to see but for world to see," he added.

"When you have a naturally brilliant match-winner of his ability playing to the potential there is no greater sight for cricket. I think in the last two months what he has done for India, no one would ever do that in a lifetime. His keeping was outstanding," he signed off.