My Only Fear Is a Repeat of 2019 WC: Deep Das Gupta on Rishabh Pant

Introduction: The Rishabh Pant Story in Indian Cricket

Rishabh Pant is one of the most exciting and talked-about cricketers in India. Known for his audacious stroke-play and match-winning ability, Pant has captivated fans across formats since his international debut. However, his journey hasn’t been smooth. Injuries, form concerns, and selection debates have shaped public perception around his career.

Recently, former India wicketkeeper Deep Das Gupta dropped a thought-provoking comment: “My only fear is a repeat of 2019” when talking about Pant’s future in Indian cricket, especially in white-ball formats. This article explores what this means, Pant’s current status, and why this concern matters. Throughout this piece, we’ll keep the spotlight on Rishabh Pant — his strengths, challenges, and the road ahead.

Who Is Rishabh Pant?

The Early Rise

Rishabh Pant burst onto the cricket scene with his fearless batting. A left-handed batsman, he brought a new kind of aggression to India’s middle order. From the U19 setup to the national team, Pant’s journey was marked by blistering innings and brilliant wicketkeeping.

He quickly became a favourite in Test cricket for his game-changing ability and in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for his explosive power hitting.

The Deep Das Gupta Perspective

“My Only Fear Is a Repeat of 2019”

Deep Das Gupta, a respected voice in cricket commentary and former India wicketkeeper, recently raised concerns about Rishabh Pant and India’s selection consistency. He said “my only fear is a repeat of 2019” in context with how the middle order was handled back then — without effective backups and clarity in roles.

Here’s what Das Gupta meant:

• Lack of Clear Backups: In 2019, India had minimal contingency plans for middle-order failures. Das Gupta fears a similar scenario could repeat if Pant’s role isn’t clearly defined.
• Support and Clarity: Pant has been part of the system for years. If the team believes in him, they should back him strongly. If not, they should develop a consistent second option instead of constantly rotating players.

This isn’t about doubting Pant’s talent — it’s about giving the player a stable role and belief that allows him to perform without pressure.

Rishabh Pant’s Recent Challenges

Fitness and Comebacks

Pant suffered a serious car accident in late 2022, which kept him out of competitive cricket for a long time. His return to the field was inspirational, but injuries have continued to linger. He fractured his foot during India’s Test series in England in 2025, forcing him out of key matches.

Despite the injury, Pant’s determination showed when he walked out to bat in the same Test with a fractured toe, earning praise from former players and fans alike.

Fitness questions, however, have impacted his white-ball career. Selectors have hesitated to include him consistently in ODI and T20I squads — a decision that has stirred media debates and fan discussions.

The White-Ball Dilemma

Why Pant’s Role Is Unclear

While Pant is an undisputed asset in Test cricket, his role in limited overs remains debated. Recent media reports indicate he was overlooked for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad and possibly for upcoming ODI series as well.

Deep Das Gupta has pointed out that part of the problem isn’t lack of talent but lack of clarity about what role Pant should play in white-ball cricket. Should he bat at the top? As a middle-order anchor? Or be used as a finisher? The answer isn’t straightforward, and this confusion affects team strategy and Pant’s performance.

What Experts Say About Pant’s Game

A Unique Batting Skillset

Cricket experts often praise Rishabh Pant’s attacking instincts. His ability to play unorthodox shots and dominate bowlers makes him a nightmare for opponents when he’s set.

But limited-overs cricket demands not just aggression, but also calculated pacing and situational awareness. That balance has been a challenge, especially after his long injury layoff.

Comparison With Past Performances

Before his accident, Pant was starting to translate his natural flair into white-ball effectiveness. A part of Indian cricket pundits believe that having continuous match exposure — rather than sporadic selection — is key to Pant rediscovering his best form.

Das Gupta himself emphasised that Pant hasn’t had enough consistent opportunities in the 50-over format for years, and this affects confidence and rhythm.

The 2019 World Cup Reference

What Happened in 2019?

India’s 2019 World Cup campaign was marked by a strong top order but struggles in the middle. The absence of reliable backups and instability in batting positions contributed to a late tournament exit.

This is the scenario Das Gupta wants Indian selectors to avoid repeating — especially with Pant’s career at a critical juncture. Providing clarity in role and consistent backing could help prevent history from repeating.

Why Rishabh Pant Still Matters

Test Cricket Legacy

In the longer format, Pant has already carved a legacy. He’s famous for memorable innings in tough conditions, showcasing resilience, skill, and fearlessness. His match-winning knock in the Gabba Test and consistent performances against top bowling attacks underline his class.

The Potential for a White-Ball Renaissance

Pant’s white-ball career isn’t over. But it needs strategic support. Clear planning from team management, defined roles, and regular opportunities could unlock his potential — the very thing Das Gupta alluded to when warning about a repeat of 2019.

What Fans and Selectors Need to Consider

Give Time and Trust

Rishabh Pant is still young and has many playing years ahead. What he needs now is a stable environment where:

• His batting position is clearly defined.
• He plays regularly to build rhythm.
• He gets the trust of the team management.

Constant shuffling without a clear plan may do more harm than good.

Develop Backup Options Smartly

At the same time, selectors must cultivate backups. India’s cricket depth is strong, but clear succession planning ensures that even if key players falter or miss out, the team remains balanced.

Conclusion: Pant’s Future Beyond Fear

Rishabh Pant’s journey has seen sparkling highs and worrying lows. The comment by Deep Das Gupta — “my only fear is a repeat of 2019” — is less about doubting Pant and more about advocating clarity, backing, and strategic planning for his role in Indian cricket.

At his best, Pant is a genuine match-winner. With proper support and trust, he can still be a pivotal figure in all formats of the game. Instead of fearing a repeat of past mistakes, Indian cricket can use this moment to shape a clear, confident future for one of its most exciting talents.

Whether it’s the Test arena or the upcoming white-ball challenges, Rishabh Pant’s story is far from over — and with the right decisions, it could still be one of Indian cricket’s most thrilling chapters.

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