Former strength and conditioning coach of Indian Team Basu Shanker, who has been credited by Virat Kohli as one of the best fitness coaches India has ever had, has recently revealed about what makes Rishabh Pant and the likes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, and Pawan Negi so special.

The discussion was centered around Rishabh Pant’s accident and how remarkably the left-hander has rehabilitated and made a comeback as if his injury did not happen.

The interviewer, i.e. Dr. Pal, asked “Is that kind of natural recovery possible” in context of Rishabh Pant’s accident that happened almost two years ago.

Basu Shanker, who has also worked with RCB and Virat Kohli opined that the “Pahadi Gene” or the Hill station boys have stronger genetics which enables them to not only perform physically well but also to recover faster from injuries and fatigue. He also said the same thing for Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

“Basically, you will notice that his genetics are very good. And I think he is a Pahari. He is strong. When I first saw him (Pant) in the Indian team, I said — this guy is a bull. He can do… I’ll put three guys in the same bracket — Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni, and Negi. They’re all Pahadi hill boys, and they are so strong. I think their genes also play a huge role.”
— Basu Shanker on Rishabh Pant’s remarkable recovery

Rishabh Pant was involved in a near-fatal crash on the Delhi-Dehradunn Expressway after his car collided with a divider. The accident was so severe that the car got engulfed in the fire.

Luckily, Rishabh Pant escaped with the help of good samaritan, but he had suffered dislocated knee, ligament tears, and it was a concern that he may not be able to play again for India.

Not only did he recovered, but also made a strong comeback and is now performing just like he used to do before the accident happened.