Srinagar, September 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Rest of India captain Rishabh Pant said he is focused on making the most of every opportunity as he returns to red-ball cricket in the Irani Cup against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir, beginning in Srinagar on Thursday.
Pant has been preparing intensely at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium ahead of the high-profile clash. Having not been picked for India’s ongoing white-ball series against the West Indies, the Irani Cup provides him with an opportunity to regain match rhythm ahead of the Ranji Trophy season and India’s upcoming Test assignment in New Zealand.
“For me, it’s very simple. Whatever is in front of me, I will give my best. That’s how I play cricket, and I keep it very simple. So whatever opportunity I get, I try to make the best out of it,” Pant said at the pre-match press conference in Srinagar.
“For me, every game is an opportunity. I want to give my best, and I keep it very simple,” he added.
Pant is returning to competitive action after a three-week break following India’s 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka. Despite the attention surrounding his selection, he said he remains focused on his performance rather than outside discussion.
“I try to give my best every time I take on the field, and that has been the key for me over a period of time. Yes, there will be ups and downs,” Pant said.
“When you want to have an international career for 15-20 years, you have to go through all these things. So it’s that kind of mindset, and it’s very simple — have the right people to guide you and just keep giving your best each and every time you take on the field,” he added.
Pant also reflected on how his perspective changed during his long rehabilitation following his serious car accident in December 2022. The extended recovery, he said, taught him the importance of keeping things simple.
“When you have gone through so much in your life, you understand, you know, keeping it simple is the key. Obviously, when you’re playing for your country, working hard is not optional,” he said.
“You have to work hard, you have to be mentally strong, and you’ve got to keep on learning and keep on improving. And that’s the mindset you want to keep,” he added.
Pant acknowledged that a prolonged rehabilitation can be frustrating, but said learning to avoid overthinking is part of dealing with the challenges of an international career.
“Especially when you’re going through a long rehab, it’s always frustrating. But developing that mindset [not overthinking] is obviously challenging, but at the same time, if you’re playing international cricket, you have to go through challenges,” he said.
The Irani Cup clash will give Pant an opportunity to build his red-ball rhythm as he prepares for the next phase of the domestic and international season.
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