Reports have suggested that Rishabh Pant could be left out of India’s squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand in January 2026. The possibility has sparked debate, especially with Ishan Kishan emerging as a strong contender after impressive performances in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Pant has not played an ODI since August 2024, and his mixed domestic form has added to the uncertainty around his place. However, dropping him at this stage may not be the right decision. There are several strong reasons why India should continue to back Rishabh Pant in the ODI setup instead of moving on too quickly.
Decent Odi Record Despite Limited Chances Since 2021
Since 2021, Rishabh Pant has featured in only a handful of ODIs due to injuries and selection decisions. Despite this lack of continuity, his numbers in the format remain respectable. In 2021, he scored runs at an exceptional average and strike rate, showing his ability to change the tempo of a game.
The following year, he accumulated over 300 runs across ten innings, including a century and two half-centuries, while maintaining a healthy strike rate. These performances indicate that Pant has delivered whenever he has been trusted with regular opportunities. Judging him based on sporadic appearances does not present a fair picture of his true ODI value.
Pant Has Not Been Given Enough Chances To Justify Being Dropped
Pant’s absence from the playing XI in recent ODI series raises questions about the logic behind potentially dropping him. He was part of multiple squads, including the home series against England and the Champions Trophy-winning campaign, yet did not play a single match.
Even after being selected for series against Australia and South Africa, he remained on the bench. A player cannot be expected to prove himself without consistent chances. Since Pant has neither failed repeatedly nor been tested adequately in ODIs recently, there is little justification for excluding him purely on form or performance grounds.
Keeping Long-term Planning In Mind Ahead Of The 2027 World Cup
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, every bilateral series becomes important for building a stable core. While other wicketkeeping options exist, relying on a single choice could be risky. Pant’s versatility gives him an edge, as he can bat across different positions, unlike some alternatives who are more effective at the top of the order.
Having made his ODI debut in 2018, Pant brings experience and adaptability that could prove vital in pressure situations. Rather than closing doors prematurely, India should keep multiple options open and continue investing in a player who has already shown match-winning potential at the international level.
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