Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly criticized Rishabh Pant for his approach to Test cricket, particularly after Pant's recent dismissal for 81 runs against Afghanistan. This marked the ninth occasion Pant has been dismissed in the 80s, prompting Ashwin to question his decision-making and awareness of match situations. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin expressed frustration, stating, "Having come to 80, can’t you play for another 20 runs?" He emphasized that while all players make mistakes, Pant's repeated failures to convert starts into significant scores are disappointing. Ashwin believes that if Pant had capitalized on these opportunities, his record would be among the best in the world. Despite his critiques, Ashwin praised Pant's talent, noting that he is the best Test wicketkeeper India has seen. He concluded by stressing that successful Test batting requires strategic decision-making rather than low-percentage shots, urging Pant to find a balance between his natural audacity and the demands of the game.