Cheteshwar Pujara Questions Rishabh Pant's IPL Performance Compared to Tests

Cheteshwar Pujara has voiced his confusion over Rishabh Pant's inability to replicate his Test cricket success in the IPL. Despite being a key player for India in red-ball cricket, Pant's performance in the shorter format has raised eyebrows. Pujara suggests that a shift in mindset and clarity in batting strategy could enhance Pant's game. As Pant navigates his role in the IPL, questions arise about the impact of captaincy on his performance. This article delves into Pujara's insights and the challenges faced by Pant in the T20 arena.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 02:18 IST

Pujara's Surprising Take on Pant's IPL Struggles

Cheteshwar Pujara expressed his astonishment regarding Rishabh Pant's inability to mirror his Test cricket success in the IPL, where his performance has been less than stellar.

Despite being India's primary wicketkeeper-batter in Test matches, Pant has seen a decline in his white-ball cricket status. He is currently not part of the T20I squad, even after being a T20 World Cup champion in 2024, and is now the second-choice keeper in ODIs behind KL Rahul.

Throughout his IPL career, Pant has participated in 134 matches, accumulating 3,757 runs, which includes two centuries and 20 fifties, at a strike rate of 146—slightly below the expected standard for a top-order batsman. In contrast, he has scored 3,476 runs in 49 Tests, featuring eight centuries and 18 fifties, with notable performances in England, Australia, and South Africa.

Pujara, who serves as an expert for JioHotstar CTV Hindi, remarked, "I am quite surprised because Rishabh Pant has the ability to take on any bowler in Test cricket, yet his IPL statistics do not reflect that prowess."

He added, "I believe it’s a matter of mindset. Rishabh needs more clarity in his approach to batting."

Pujara emphasized that Pant, being a talented player capable of excelling in all formats, should have a significantly better T20 record than what is currently evident.

The former Indian cricketer pointed out that Pant's batting in the IPL requires more clarity. After initially aiming to bat higher in the order this season, Pant has reverted to the middle order following some underwhelming performances.

Pujara noted, "Technically, I don’t see much that needs changing in Rishabh’s batting; it’s primarily a mindset issue."

He elaborated on the need for Pant to have clear thoughts about his batting strategy and the types of shots he should play. In Test cricket, Pant is aware of his strengths and can effectively target specific areas, even when the field is set defensively.

Pujara observed that Pant tends to favor leg-side shots in T20s and suggested he should work on developing his off-side game to enhance his success.

Regarding the impact of captaincy on performance, Pujara mentioned that MI skipper Hardik Pandya should evaluate whether his leadership role is affecting his game, noting that it seems to be a challenge for Pant.

He stated, "That’s something only they can answer, but we’ve seen players like Rishabh Pant struggle while leading their teams. It raises the question of whether the captaincy is hindering their performance."

Pujara added, "If Rishabh focuses more on his individual game, it could benefit him, as captaincy hasn’t been advantageous for him lately."

He concluded by saying that the decision to continue as a captain or step back is ultimately Pant's to make, and if playing solely as a player improves his performance, that should be considered.

In defense of T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav's recent batting difficulties, Pujara remarked that consistency in the IPL is often overrated.

He explained, "While Surya’s performance could certainly improve, it’s essential to recognize the role a player fulfills in T20 cricket. Scoring quick runs, even if it’s just 20 off eight balls, can be more beneficial for the team than focusing solely on individual scores."