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As Team India gets ready for the ODI series against Sri Lanka, cricket fans are buzzing with excitement. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli back in action after their T20I retirements, the squad looks stronger than ever. However, the wicketkeeping position has sparked a big debate: should it be Rishabh Pant or KL Rahul?
Pant’s Return: Ending a 661-Day ODI Hiatus
Rishabh Pant is set to make his comeback in the 50-over format after being out for 661 days. His last ODI was in November 2022, and since then, he’s had quite the journey. After a serious car accident, Pant made a remarkable return, captaining the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 and joining India’s T20 World Cup-winning team. Though he’s India’s primary keeper in T20Is and Tests, Pant is still working to make his mark in ODIs.
X-Factor with Potential
Pant has scored 865 runs at an average of 34.60 and a strike rate of 106.65 in ODIs. His century against England in Manchester is a standout performance. Yet, questions remain about his ability to finish games or anchor the innings during collapses, roles KL Rahul excels in. Despite this, Pant’s aggressive and unorthodox batting style adds an X-factor to the team. His left-handedness could also balance the middle order if Rahul bats at number five.
KL Rahul: The Strong Contender
It would seem unfair to bench KL Rahul after his fantastic performance in the ODI World Cup 2023. Not always an opener, Rahul found new life in the middle order, making 452 runs at an average of 75.33, including a century and an unbeaten 97*. His record at number five is stellar, with 1259 runs at an average of 57.22 and a strike rate of 95.45. Rahul has consistently rescued India from tricky situations, showing excellent game sense and timing.
Both Pant and Rahul: Is It Possible?
India’s top four—Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer—are set. Rahul, based on his record, should bat at number five. If Pant is included, he could bat at number six, though he’s only done so twice in ODIs, scoring 45 runs at a strike rate of 97.82. Pant would need to adapt to a finisher role, which isn’t his usual style. Alternatively, India could consider an all-rounder like Riyan Parag or Shivam Dube for number six, maintaining balance in the team.
KL Rahul wicket keeper practice in net session at Colombo!!!!!
( Rohit Juglan)#KLRahul #IndiaAtOlympics pic.twitter.com/Wh2JL38rgc— Cricketman (@Manojy9812) August 1, 2024
What do you think? Should India go with Pant, Rahul, or find a way to play both? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
