Rishabh Pant’s place in India’s ODI setup has come under fresh scrutiny ahead of the three-match series against New Zealand, with reports suggesting that not everyone in the team management is convinced about his batting approach. The squad for the series, starting January 11, is expected to be announced soon, and Pant’s selection has become a major talking point.
According to a PTI report, it is an “open secret” that at least one member of the Indian team management is not a fan of Pant’s high-risk, high-reward batting template and would prefer him to adopt a more conventional style in the 50-over format. This has reportedly put him at risk of being overlooked in favour of Ishan Kishan.
Pant, who made his ODI debut in October 2018, has played just 31 matches in the format so far. His last ODI appearance came against Sri Lanka in August 2024. In the last 18 months, he hasn’t been given a single ODI despite being part of squads, raising questions about his role in the team’s plans.
His recent form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy hasn’t strengthened his case either. Playing for Delhi, Pant has managed only one half-century in four matches, with his highest score being 70. In contrast, Ishan Kishan has grabbed attention with aggressive performances, including a six-hitting spree for Jharkhand, while Dhruv Jurel has also impressed with a century for Uttar Pradesh.
With KL Rahul firmly established as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, carrying three wicketkeepers in a 15-member ODI squad may be seen as unnecessary. That leaves the selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, with a tough call to make.
While dropping Pant without giving him a fair run could be viewed as harsh, the upcoming New Zealand series may well define where he stands in India’s ODI future.
