Sports presenter Grace Hayden, daughter of legendary Australian batter Matthew Hayden, recently opened up about why she has a special soft spot for Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. Her admiration for Pant is rooted not only in his cricketing prowess but also in his extraordinary resilience and inspiring comeback story, which has won hearts across the cricketing world, including hers.
“I have a soft spot for Rishabh Pant”: Grace Hayden
Grace Hayden expressed deep respect for Pant’s journey back to top-level international cricket after a harrowing car accident in December 2022. Pant suffered multiple serious injuries, including dislocations to his knee, ankle, and wrist, along with back issues. Doctors initially gave him a challenging road to recovery, but Pant defied all odds by returning to competitive cricket in under 15 months. Grace described his recovery and subsequent performances with high praise, calling it “sensational” and a testament to his sheer willpower and mental toughness.
“I have a soft spot for Rishabh Pant,” Grace said in an interview with InsideSport. “Because of his injury. I think the way that he has come back, fighting, and to play at the level that he is playing right now — ridiculous. That is one strong human being. Hats off to him. He’s a gangsta.” Her words reflected both awe and affection for Pant’s determination to overcome physical and psychological hurdles to reclaim his place in the Indian team.
Hayden’s respect for Rishabh Pant and bond with India
Grace also acknowledged Pant’s standing as one of the most valuable players in the IPL, recalling how he became the most expensive player in IPL history with a record ₹27 crore contract. This fact, she noted, further underscores his immense talent and popularity. But beyond statistics and records, Grace highlighted Pant’s strength of character, describing him as an “exceptional guy” and “inspiring player” whose comeback has moved fans worldwide.
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Despite being Australian, Grace said she is “proud” of Rishabh Pant and admires him greatly as both a cricketer and a person. Her connection with Pant goes beyond nationality, grounded in respect for his courage and skill. She contrasted his inspiring fightback with the challenges many athletes face, emphasizing Pant’s role as a true role model for resilience in sport.
Grace’s admiration is not just limited to cricket but also includes a fondness for India, a country that has long been part of her life thanks to her father Matthew Hayden’s successful cricket career in the subcontinent. She fondly recalled how her father would bring Indian spices home, nurturing her love for Indian cuisine. “I love a dal curry and a roti,” Grace said with a smile, highlighting the cultural bond she feels with India.
