India's wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has opened up about his struggles with pressure during the initial stages of his cricketing journey. In an interview with Star Sports, Pant revealed that he experienced mental breakdowns due to the constant comparisons with legendary MS Dhoni, often leading him to his room after matches to cope with his emotions.
Currently recuperating from a severe injury resulting from a road accident, Pant expressed his confusion regarding the comparisons drawn between himself and former Indian skipper Dhoni.
"First of all, I didn't understand why questions were raised. I had just made it to the team, and people were talking about being a replacement. Why were people raising such questions at a youngster? Why are you comparing? There shouldn't be any comparison at all. Some have played five matches and the others have played 500," Pant told Star Sports.
"It's been such a long journey, so many ups and downs, so the comparison is not fair. I used to really feel very bad. I used to go back to my room and cry at 20-21 years of age. Under stress, I couldn't breathe. So much pressure and I didn't know what to do. I missed a stumping in Mohali, and the crowd started to chant 'Dhoni Dhoni'," he further added.
The constant comparisons between him and Dhoni did not affect their personal bond. The 26-year-old Pant said that Dhoni was one of his closest companions, and he often confided in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain.
"I always find it difficult to explain my relationship with MS. Dhoni. There are some with whom you can talk freely. I discuss everything with MSD. I have learned so much from him. I discuss things with him that I wouldn't discuss with anybody else. That's the kind of relationship with him," Pant said in the same interview.
Currently, Pant is preparing for his highly anticipated return to competitive cricket after his car accident. He is expected to make a comeback in IPL 2024, where his mentor Dhoni may also make his final appearance on the field in the tournament.
(Powered by AI, Inputs by India Today)
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
'There was no pressure... I slept well last night': Rajat Patidar after 32-run knock on Test debut
