As India gears up for a must-win second Test against England at Edgbaston, all eyes are on Rishabh Pant, who has become one of the most crucial players for Team India. Interestingly, ahead of this high-stakes match, Pant was seen training separately from the rest of the squad — and there's a strong reason behind this unusual move.

Why Was Pant Separated from Team India Practice?

According to a Rev Sports report, Rishabh Pant was involved in a specialized training session that focused on his wicketkeeping reflexes and catching technique. Instead of joining the rest of the squad in the usual batting and bowling drills:

• Pant practiced wicketkeeping with a tennis ball on the central pitch — a method used to sharpen reflexes and glove work.

• He then spent 20 minutes catching with a Duke ball, which is known for its pronounced seam and swing — the same ball used in this series.

This solo session indicates that Pant is refining his skills with laser focus, especially as he continues his comeback journey after the long injury layoff.

Pant’s Perspective: Individual Records Don’t Matter Without Victory

After his session, Rishabh Pant made it clear:

“My two centuries in the first match have no value because the team couldn’t win. The only goal now is to level the series 1-1.”

In the Leeds Test, Pant delivered a historic performance by scoring centuries in both innings — 134 and 118 — yet India lost the match. His statement reflects maturity and clarity of purpose as India trails 0-1 in the series.

Pant's History at Edgbaston: A Ground Full of Memories

Pant’s decision to go the extra mile at Edgbaston may also be influenced by his past success on this ground:

• In the 2022 Test at Edgbaston, he had scored a century in the first innings and a half-century in the second.

• This venue has witnessed some of his finest overseas performances, and he’ll be looking to recreate that magic.