Ravi Shastri presenting the best fielding medal to Rishabh Pant. (Screengrab)
Ravi Shastri was welcomed with a loud cheer in the dressing room after fielding coach T Dilip announced that former India coach will hand out the best fielding award to Rishabh Pant, who plucked three crucial catches and scored a valuable 42 off 31 balls.
The moment Ravi Shastri entered the room Team India’s vice-captain Hardik Pandya said: “Do line bolna hoga (You have to give a small speech).”
Shastri acknowledged and said: “I will.”
“I had tears in my eyes when I read about his accident,” Shastri said while pointing towards Pant.
“It was even worse when I saw him in the hospital. For him to comeback from there and be back in the A zone and playing one of the biggest game India vs Pakistan was so heartwarming,” he continued.
Rishabh Pant takes a catch against Pakistan. (X | Rishabh Pant)
Former India coach also lauded Pant’s wicketkeeping skills during India’s six-run win over Pakistan in New York on Sunday.
“Your batting, everybody knew what you are capable of, the X factor you have but your wicketkeeping and the range of movement that you have got so quickly back after the operation is a tribute to how much you have worked hard.
“Not just for yourself, it’s an inspiration to millions around the globe that from adversity from the jaws of death you can snatch a win as well. Well done, fantastic keep up the good work and keep going.”
After bowling India out for 119 in 19 overs, Pakistan was restricted to 113-7 in 20 overs in the low-scoring thriller.
“It was a typical India-Pakistan game, where the pendulum swinged from one side to other. Its a game that put everyone on the edge not just in the dug out or in the dressing room. In the end it is the team that seizes the big moment, hold their nerves they come out on top,” said Shastri.
India will take on tournament’s co-host USA on Wednesday, while Pakistan will lock horns against Canada on Tuesday.
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