Will Rishabh Pant get a game in Champions Trophy?
What's the story
India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has confirmed that KL Rahul will be the team's first-choice wicketkeeper for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The announcement sidelines Rishabh Pant from the initial playing XI. Despite being a part of the squad selected for the recent ODI series against England, Pant wasn't included in any of the matches. His chances of getting a game in CT looks bleak.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Pant is arguably India's greatest wicket-keeper-batter in Test cricket. He has contributed with his match-defining knocks in several memorable overseas wins However, the left-hander hasn't quite delivered in white-ball cricket. At the same time, Rahul has been sensational in ODIs. His contributions in the 2023 World Cup were instrumental in India's run to the final.
Career trajectory
Pant's career setback and IPL comeback
Pant, who burst onto the cricket scene in 2018, has established himself as a dependable middle-order player for India. However, his career was put on hold after a car accident on December 30, 2022. After a 14-month-long hiatus, he made a successful return in IPL 2024. Despite the setback and subsequent recovery, he remains second to Rahul for the wicketkeeper's position according to Gambhir's latest statement.
Performance review
Rahul's performance secures wicketkeeper position
Rahul has aced the role of the wicketkeeper-batter in ODIs as he averages 56.47 at number five, as per ESPNcricinfo. On the other hand, Pant has been a hit and miss in the format. Gambhir stated, "Ultimately, it is very difficult to talk about individuals. But all I can say is that if he (Pant) is part of the squad when time comes, he might get an opportunity."
Coach's perspective
Gambhir's stance on Pant's future opportunities
Gambhir further clarified his stance on Pant's future opportunities, saying "But at the moment, obviously, KL is the No 1 wicketkeeper and he has delivered for us." He added that it's not feasible to play both wicketkeepers considering the quality of players in the squad. However, he hoped that when Pant gets his chance, he will be fully prepared.
DYK
Pant has played just one ODI in last two years
It must be noted that Pant has featured in just a solitary ODI in the last two years. He scored six runs in a game against Sri Lanka last year. Team India did not feel his absence much in ODIs thanks to Rahul, who constantly delivered in the middle order. His glovework has also been pretty tidy. Overall, Pant owns 871 runs across 31 ODIs at 33.50. The tally includes five fifties besides a ton.