“Rishabh Pant Has Only Himself to Blame”: England Legend Slams Indian Wicketkeeper After Injury Setback
In a brutally honest take that’s sending shockwaves across the cricketing world, an England cricket legend has ripped into Rishabh Pant, suggesting that the Indian star has “only himself to blame” for his prolonged absence and injury-related woes. The comment has sparked intense debate among fans and experts alike, reigniting discussions about athlete responsibility, fitness discipline, and the pressure of fame.
The Controversial Statement Rishabh Pant
The comment came during a panel discussion on an international sports broadcast, where former England great—known for his no-nonsense approach and blunt assessments—lashed out at Pant’s handling of his fitness and career trajectory. Without mincing words, he stated:
“Pant is a phenomenal talent, no doubt about that. But talent alone doesn’t make you invincible. His reckless lifestyle, lack of discipline, and poor fitness choices played a huge role in his downfall. You can’t keep blaming fate—he has only himself to blame.”
Though the England legend didn’t wish to name the exact incidents, he alluded to Pant’s past brushes with poor fitness levels, crash injuries, and lack of form prior to the horrifying car accident in December 2022.
The Injury That Changed Everything
Rishabh Pant’s near-fatal car crash shocked the nation and sidelined one of India’s most dynamic players from all formats of cricket for over a year. Though the accident wasn’t directly related to cricket, many experts have argued that an athlete’s overall responsibility extends beyond the field. His recovery has been slow, and while his recent return to the IPL 2025 was celebrated, doubts still linger over his full return to international dominance.
A Career at a Crossroads? Rishabh Pant
Before the accident, Pant was being hailed as the successor to MS Dhoni—a match-winner who could change the course of a game in a matter of overs. But in recent months, critics have begun to question whether Pant’s off-field decisions and inconsistent discipline are costing him what could have been a legendary career.
Some pointed out earlier signs of worry: questionable shot selections, lack of match fitness, and declining performances in red-ball cricket. “He was already showing signs of burnout,” said a former Indian selector. “The accident only exposed how vulnerable he really was.”
Fans Divided: Harsh or Fair?
The cricketing fraternity and social media users are divided. While some fans accuse the England great of being needlessly harsh, others feel it’s time someone called out the lack of accountability.
Twitter/X Reactions:
- “Can’t believe he blamed Pant for an accident. So insensitive.”
- “Someone had to say it. Pant needs to focus on discipline if he wants to be remembered as great.”
- “He’s still young. Criticize constructively, not destructively.”
Team India’s Perspective
From BCCI’s side, support for Pant has been consistent. The board has invested heavily in his recovery and even fast-tracked his return to domestic formats. Head Coach Rahul Dravid has repeatedly stressed that Pant remains “an integral part of Team India’s future.”
However, sources suggest that selectors are already grooming backups in Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson, who’ve made the most of Pant’s absence. With the World Test Championship final and T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, competition is fierce.
What Lies Ahead for Pant?
Rishabh Pant’s cricketing journey is far from over. At just 27, he has time to rewrite his story. But the road ahead demands more than talent—it demands maturity, focus, and an unrelenting commitment to fitness and form.
If the England legend’s criticism serves as a wake-up call, Pant could emerge stronger than ever. But if ignored, it could become another sad chapter in the book of wasted potential.
In elite sports, the line between glory and regret is razor-thin. Rishabh Pant stands at that very line today—hailed as a hero but warned as a cautionary tale. Whether he proves his critics wrong or validates their concern now rests entirely in his hands.
