Rishabh Pant's father, Rajendra Pant had his own school but he decided to push his son into the world of cricket. Many ‘well-wishers’ used to ask Rajendra if it was the right move to allow his son to become a cricketer, but Rajendra always backed Rishabh, and Pant Jr. did not disappoint his dad.
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Dream of seeing his son play for India
As mentioned ahead, Rajendra Pant had his school in Roorkee. However, he wanted Rishabh Pant to become a cricketer and even Rishabh was happy accepting cricket as his career. The journey began on the rooftop of their house in Roorkee, where Rajendra would tie a pillow around Rishabh’s chest.
He would then use a cork ball and bowl bouncers to him on a cemented surface. This practice ensured Rishabh Pant was never afraid of facing the short deliveries from the fast bowlers. Although Rajendra tied a pillow to Rishabh’s chest, Rishabh got hurt on several occasions and even sustained fractures. However, that pain only made him stronger.
Rajendra’s ultimate dream was to see his son play international cricket for India.
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Discussions with Rishabh Pant at night
In one of his interviews with the Delhi Capitals team, Rishabh Pant revealed that he would sit with his father at night and discuss the goals. They would plan how he would have to perform well in first-class cricket and then play at the U-19 level before breaking into the senior Indian team.
Pant stated that discussions with his father at night were an integral part of his journey.
Video: Rishabh Pant On Fulfilling His Father's Dream - YouTube
Death
Rishabh Pant’s father passed away in his sleep just a few weeks after his son’s international debut. In fact, Rishabh was playing for the Delhi Daredevils (Now Dehli Capitals) in IPL 2017 when his father passed away. The youngster rushed back to his hometown to perform the last rites and joined the Delhi squad soon after.
Two days later, he hit a brilliant half-century against the Royal Challengers Bangalore. The fans applauded Rishabh for his brilliant performance that night despite suffering a personal tragedy.
