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 dynamic Rishabh Pant is not being considered for the playing XI in the near future. During the recently concluded ODI series against England, Pant was the only player who did not get a single game, while others received at least one opportunity.
Rahul, who initially batted at No. 6 in the first two matches, struggled to find his rhythm. However, he looked far more comfortable at No. 5 in the third ODI, scoring a valuable 40 off 29 balls. His performance played a crucial role in India’s dominant 142-run victory.
At the post-series press conference, Gautam Gambhir emphasized KL Rahul position as the team’s top wicketkeeper. “It’s tough to talk about individuals, but if he is in the squad, he might get an opportunity when the time comes. Right now, KL is our No. 1 wicketkeeper, and he has delivered for us,” Gambhir stated.
He further clarified that the team cannot accommodate both wicketkeepers in the playing XI. “With the quality we have, it’s not possible to play two wicketkeepers. Hopefully, whenever Pant gets his chance, he will be ready. But at the moment, KL is the one who will start,” Gambhir added.
India’s Professional Approach in the ODI Series
Gambhir praised the team’s professionalism throughout the series. Despite already securing the series win, India treated the final ODI as a must-win game. “We could have approached this as a dead rubber, but we wanted to put ourselves under pressure and play with intent. The players responded well,” he said.
While he acknowledged that no team can tick all boxes perfectly, he was satisfied with the overall performance. India’s clinical display in all departments ensured a dominant 3-0 whitewash against England.
Gambhir Defends Shubman Gill’s Performance
Gambhir also addressed concerns about Shubman Gill’s form, urging people not to judge players based on individual innings. Gill struggled on bouncy, seam-friendly pitches in Australia but found his rhythm in the ODI series against England, scoring two fifties and a century on batting-friendly tracks.
“We shouldn’t mix formats while assessing performances. Test cricket is tough, and Gill has shown that he belongs in that format too. He’s just 25 and has a bright future ahead,” Gambhir stated.
With the Champions Trophy approaching, India’s squad looks settled, and Gambhir’s clarity on team selections provides stability. As the tournament draws closer, all eyes will be on KL Rahul to maintain his form and justify his role as India’s preferred wicketkeeper.