‘We’ll Give 200%’: Pant Sends Strong Message Before Guwahati Test Showdown

On the eve of Assam hosting its first-ever Test match, Rishabh Pant walked into the pre-match press conference at ACA Barsapara Stadium carrying both responsibility and sentiment. 

With Shubman Gill ruled out due to injury, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter will lead India in a moment he described as both “special” and “deeply personal.”

Pant, who made his ODI debut on this very ground, said the symbolism of returning as Test captain was not lost on him.

“This ground has always been special. I made my one-day international debut here, and now, captaining India in Guwahati’s first Test makes it even more special. It will be special for Guwahatians too, as a Test match is finally being played here,” he said.

Expressing gratitude to the cricket board, he added,

“I am thankful to the BCCI for giving me this responsibility. Leading your country is the proudest moment for any Indian, especially in Test cricket. But I don’t want to take undue pressure — I want to keep things simple and play natural cricket based on the conditions.”

Gill Ruled Out; India Keep Replacement Under Wraps

Confirming Gill’s absence, Pant said the opener was eager to play but could not recover fully.

“Gill is fine now, but his body didn’t permit him to play. We have already decided who will replace him. The player knows he is in, but we will announce it tomorrow,” Pant said, noting that the team’s left-heavy batting order had been considered in selection discussions.

India’s Approach After Eden Loss: ‘Not Overthinking’

After a hard-fought defeat in the first Test at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, Pant said India are focused on clarity of approach rather than dwelling on the setback.

“We are not overthinking about it. We know how we play cricket and how to conduct ourselves on the field. It was a tough Test match, and coming out of it, we want to do whatever is required to win this one,” he said.

On whether Test cricket demands specialist players over the modern crop of multi-skilled all-rounders, Pant responded with a tactical perspective.

“It depends on the balance of the combination. As per the conditions, you have to see who gives more stability — a specialist or an all-rounder. It’s all about the team balance and the way you want to play cricket.”

Pant’s Leadership Vision: Freedom and Accountability

In one of the most telling statements of the interaction, Pant outlined his philosophy as a leader.

“I want to give players the freedom to learn and make the right decisions for the team. With my knowledge, I will surely help them on the field, regardless of anything,” he said.

His priority, he emphasised, is wholehearted commitment:

“I WANT TO GIVE MY 100% on the field and enjoy the game as much as possible.”

Mental Game in Red-Ball Cricket

Pant highlighted the psychological dimension of Test cricket, describing how the format allows both opportunity and risk.

“Red-ball cricket gives more time for small tactical changes to be overcome. At the same time, you have to keep your emotions in check and not let the game drift away for too long. Stay as close to the game as possible during pressure moments,” he said.

He insisted that India must rise above the series scoreline — South Africa lead 1–0 — and focus on internal standards.

“As a team, we don’t want to focus on the result. Whether we are one up or they are one up, we have to give our 200%. Eventually, the team playing better cricket will win.”

South Africa Study Grass-Rich Surface

From the visiting camp, indications are that the pitch offers carry and visible grass cover.
South Africa will reassess conditions on match morning.

“After Kolkata, we are ready for the second game. We hope spectators get to enjoy good cricket,” a team representative said. Captain Temba Bavuma is expected to address the media ahead of the opening day.

Sudhir Kumar Gautam Arrives, Barsapara Atmosphere Builds

Adding to the colour and spectacle of the occasion, India’s iconic cricket superfan Sudhir Kumar Gautam reached Barsapara on Friday, drawing excited crowds as preparations intensified across the venue.

A Test of Firsts — For Assam, and for Pant

Saturday’s Test will mark a new chapter for Assam, which has long waited for its own five-day game. For Pant, it is a homecoming of sorts — from debutant to Test captain — on the same turf.

With India intent on levelling the series, South Africa seeking to seal an overseas win, and Guwahati preparing for its most significant cricketing moment yet, the stage is primed for a historic contest.

Also Read: Historic First Test Match in Guwahati: Assam Set for a Golden Chapter in Cricket