Rishabh Pant has expressed relief at the absence of veteran pacers James Anderson and Stuart Broad from the England squad for the upcoming Test series. Speaking at a pre-match press conference at Headingley, ahead of the first Test starting on Friday, June 20, Pant acknowledged the significant impact the two legendary bowlers have had on world cricket and admitted it would be "comforting" not to face them this time around.
"Definitely, it feels so good when both (Anderson and Broad) are not there," Pant chuckled. "Because coming from the last two tours, they've been there for England for so many years and I've only come for two tours."
This summer marks a transition for the English side, as it is the first time in many years that neither Anderson nor Broad will feature in the playing XI. Broad retired following the 2023 Ashes series, transitioning into broadcasting. Anderson concluded his Test career after the first match against the West Indies last year but remains involved in cricket, occasionally working with the England team in a coaching capacity. Together, Anderson and Broad have taken a record 1,308 Test wickets, becoming synonymous with England's formidable bowling attack over the past decade. Anderson, in particular, holds the record for the most Test wickets against India, with 149 scalps in 39 matches at an average of 25.47, including six five-wicket hauls.
Despite the absence of these two stalwarts, Pant cautioned against complacency, emphasizing that England still possesses a strong bowling lineup. "But at the same time, they have enough ammunition as an England bowling line-up. We don't want to take anyone lightly because our team is also young. They're still looking to develop themselves. But at the same time, we've got to play our cricket and respect the bowlers and opposition where it needs it," Pant added.
England's pace attack at Headingley includes experienced seamer Chris Woakes, a veteran of 57 Tests, and Durham paceman Brydon Carse, who is set for his home debut. Carse acknowledged the inexperience in the bowling lineup but sees it as an opportunity for younger players to "stamp down some authority throughout the series." He also highlighted Woakes's experience and the "confidence and calmness" he brings to the bowling group.
Pant also addressed the changes in India's batting order following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Shubman Gill will move to No. 4, while Pant will continue batting at No. 5. The No. 3 position is still under discussion, with Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair being considered. Pant believes that his camaraderie with the new captain, Shubman Gill, will be a positive factor for the team. "If you're good friends off the field, it eventually comes on the field. It's much better for cricket always, and that is something I've always believed in. Me and him, we get along really well together. We keep on having conversations, and the kind of comfort zone we have with each other — I think that is really going to be special for us."
India is aiming for its first Test series victory in England since 2007. Pant acknowledged the gap left by the experienced players but sees it as an opportunity to build a new culture within the team. As vice-captain, Pant is focused on sharing his knowledge and experience with the younger players. He has also made slight technical adjustments to his batting stance to adapt to the swing-friendly English conditions.
