‘Had Tears In My Eyes’: Ravi Shastri’s Emotional Speech For Rishabh Pant After IND vs PAK Match Goes Viral- WATCH

Ravi Shastri revealed that tears welled up in his eyes upon hearing about Rishabh Pant's accident following the India vs Pakistan match on Sunday.

India (IND) defeated Pakistan (PAK) in the 19th fixture of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on June 9 (Sunday). In a low-score thriller match, India’s target of 120 proved too much for Pakistan as they could only muster 113-7 in 20 overs, losing the IND vs PAK match by 6 runs. India were on course for an even lesser first-innings score, but Rishabh Pant’s brilliant 31-ball 42 runs knock helped India further on a touch wicket.

Pant also took three good catches behind the stumps. Due to his outstanding performance with the gloves, Pant was awarded the Best Fielder Award in the Indian dressing room by the Indian team fielding coach T Dilip, and the award was presented by special guest Ravi Shastri. Former India coach, visibly emotional, had a speech prepared for Pant as the rest of the squad cheered on.

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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 praised Rishabh Pant's brilliant performance, expressing his emotional reaction to Pant's accident and his difficult recovery. He found it heartwarming to see Pant return to top form and play in the significant India vs Pakistan match.

"All I say for Rishabh. Brilliant performance. I had tears in my eyes when I heard about his accident. When I saw him in hospital, it was worse. And then for him to come back from there and be back in the A-zone playing one of the biggest games, India vs Pakistan, is heartwarming," said Shastri.

Watch Shastri's Speech For Pant Here

Former India Coach Lauded Pant's Wicketkeeping In His Comeback To Cricket

Shastri commended Pant's batting prowess, acknowledging his well-known capabilities and X-factor. He also lauded Pant's remarkable wicketkeeping skills and agility, noting how quickly he recovered after the operation.

"Batting, everybody knew. What you're capable of, the X-factor you have. But your wicketkeeping and range of movement that you have quickly got back in after the operation, is a tribute for how much you worked hard. Not just for yourself, it's an inspiration to millions around the globe. From adversity, from the jaws of death, you can snatch a win as well. So well done, keep up the good work," said Shastri.