IND vs SA | Of course, we want Rishabh Pant to play all his shots, says Vikram Rathour

Rishabh Pant must be under a lost of pressure now that his performance has been put under tremendous scrutiny by the captain and the head coach. After the West Indies tour, Ravi Shastri was clearly annoyed by the way the youngster throws away his wicket. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli has made it clear that young team members won't be given myriads of chances to prove themselves, directing it at Pant. So clearly, the 21-year-old has been branded as a "careless" cricketer.

However, at his age, if he gives up his fearless batting, he will lose his originality and batting coach Vikram Rathore realises that. Rathour has said that an important part of his job is to have these conversations with the cricketers and about the technical adjustments, it's something that needs to be made throughout one's career no matter how long. So it won't be any different for Pant.

"At this level, it is more about the mindset," Rathour said. "Getting your game plans right. Lots and lots of discussions. Why they are making certain decisions at whichever time they do that. Someone like Rishabh, I think he is a phenomenal player. There is no doubt about that."

"Of course he needs to sort out his game plans a little more," Rathour said. "Bring a little bit of discipline to his game. All the young players need to realise that there is a fine line between fearless cricket and careless cricket. What the team management is asking of them is fearless cricket. Having clear game plans and playing with intent and backing your strengths. At the same time, they cannot be careless. I am sure they are starting to understand that."

It will be Rathour's job to correct his "careless" shot selection and for that, he will have to speak with the concerned batsman to know the reason behind those selections. If it was pressure, if it was lack of intensity, if it was lack of fitness, or if it was the lack of necessary skill to play that shot. However, Rathore has attested that Pant will be allowed to play those big shots he's so fond of. 

"It feels like all my life I have played only cricket. By now, at least this much I know: how to play in what situation. Sometimes you have to curb your instincts, that is also important. At the end of the day, you have to score runs. Can't play just to survive."

"Of course we want him to play all his shots. That is what makes him special. He is an impact player, but at the same time he cannot afford to be careless. He needs to understand the difference between the two."