After series loss to SA, Pant vows to come back stronger

Acknowledging the team’s shortcomings in the recently concluded two-Test series against South Africa, India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant admitted they “did not play good enough cricket” while apologising to fans for not meeting expectations.

India were handed a 0-2 defeat at home, with the Proteas controlling both matches in Kolkata and Guwahati. After securing their first Test win in India since 2010 in the Kolkata opener, the reigning World Test champions wrapped up a historic series triumph with a massive 408-run victory in the second Test, India’s heaviest loss by runs. The result marks South Africa’s second Test series win in India, following their 2-0 sweep in early 2000 under Hansie Cronje.

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Following Wednesday’s loss, head coach Gautam Gambhir and players have faced sharp criticism. In the midst of the backlash, Pant posted an emotional message on social media, apologising to fans who had backed the team and assuring them of a determined response.

“There is no shying away from the fact that we didn’t play good enough cricket over the last two weeks. As a team and as individuals, we always want to perform at the highest level and bring smiles to billions of Indians. Sorry, we couldn’t live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt, and grow – both as a team and as individuals.”

“Representing India is the greatest honour of our lives. We know what this team is capable of, and we will work hard, regroup, refocus and reset to come back stronger and better as a team & individuals. Thank you for your unwavering support and love! Jai Hind,” Pant wrote.

Pant captained India in the second Test after Shubman Gill was sidelined with a neck injury. While a few of his on-field decisions drew praise, he also faced criticism for the defeat and for his own batting performance.

Taking responsibility after the match at Guwahati’s ACA Stadium, Pant said, “It’s a little disappointing. As a team, we need to get better. Credit to the opposition, they dominated the series. We needed to be clear with our mindset. Cricket demands capitalising as a team, and we didn’t do that. That cost us the whole series.”