Sanjay Manjrekar Praises Rishabh Pant's Technique, Draws Comparison to MS Dhoni

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar commended Rishabh Pant's impressive century and defensive technique similar to MS Dhoni. Pant and Shubman Gill's significant innings set a 515-run target against Bangladesh in the first Test. Despite early setbacks, India's strong middle-order and effective bowling led to a commanding position.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has praised Rishabh Pant, noting that the wicketkeeper-batter's century showcased a fine defensive technique reminiscent of former skipper MS Dhoni. Centuries from Pant and Shubman Gill propelled India to set a challenging 515-run target in the first Test in Chennai.

Commenting on ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar said, 'Rishabh Pant is a misleading package. He often plays dot balls like Shubman Gill, showing his willingness to adopt a defensive strategy when necessary. Pant, much like Dhoni, has a solid defensive technique and plays with a personal approach to scoring runs, akin to Virender Sehwag.'

In the match, Bangladesh won the toss and fielded, initially putting India on the back foot at 34/3. Important partnerships, including a 199-run stand between Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, led India to 376. Despite Bangladesh's strong start in their chase, India's bowlers kept control, leaving Bangladesh 158/4 at the end of day three.

(With inputs from agencies.)