India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, on Wednesday, confirmed KL Rahul as the team’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the upcoming Champions Trophy, dismissing growing calls for Rishabh Pant’s inclusion. He also addressed criticism surrounding the decision to send Axar Patel ahead of Rahul in the batting order during the recently concluded ODI series against England.
Gambhir Backs KL Rahul Over Rishabh Pant
Despite strong performances from Pant, India prioritized continuity by backing Rahul for the ODI series against England. However, batting at No. 6 in the first two matches, the Karnataka batter struggled to replicate his standout performances from the 2023 ODI World Cup, which had originally secured his spot over Pant. This led to discussions among some veteran cricketers who felt Pant would be a better fit at No. 6 if India’s strategy involved shifting Rahul down the order. In the final ODI against England in Ahmedabad, Rahul returned to his preferred No. 5 position and played a crucial knock of 40 off 29 balls in India’s commanding 142-run victory. Following the match, Gambhir put an end to speculation by confirming Rahul as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper.
“KL is our No 1 wicketkeeper and this is what I can say at the moment. Rishabh Pant will get his chance but at the moment it is KL who has done well and we cannot play two wicketkeeper-batters,” Gambhir stated in the post-match press conference.
Rahul’s Batting Position Uncertain
While backing Rahul as India’s primary wicketkeeper-batter for the Champions Trophy, Gambhir did not specify his batting position, despite criticism over the strategic changes.
“We don’t look at averages and stats. We look at who can deliver when,” he responded when asked about the decision.
Gambhir on Bumrah’s Injury
I am not speaking much on Jasprit Bumrah’s back injury in the Champions Trophy, which had kept him out for quite some time.
-Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out. I cannot give details because the medical team decides in NCA and they will give (the updates),Gambhir said.