The emergence of KL Rahul as the wicket-keeper in the limited-overs has left the selectors in the dilemma with the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 lined up later this year. With no signs of MS Dhoni returning to international cricket, Rishabh Pant and Rahul will be in the running for the spot.
Pant has witnessed a steep downfall in his form with the bat and subsequently lost his place in the playing XI. KL Rahul seized the opportunity with both hands knocking consistent runs against Australia followed by the tour of New Zealand where he finished as the highest run-scorer along with showing good wicket-keeping skills.
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The wicket-keeper from Delhi – Rishabh Pant will have to work hard to slot back in the playing XI. With the forthcoming edition of the Indian Premier League in jeopardy, Pant will find it difficult to make it to the team. Recently, former chief selector Kris Srikkanth also gave his opinion on the wicketkeeper’s spot and picked Rahul over Rishabh, if Dhoni isn’t there.
“Because straightaway, in my opinion, KL Rahul will be the wicketkeeper-batsman. Rishabh Pant, I still think he might be a bit of a doubt, but I believe that Rishabh Pant is highly talented,” he said on Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected.
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“So, I wouldn’t mind taking him along with the squad, but definitely if the IPL doesn’t happen, then Dhoni will have a difficult time getting back into the team for the T20 World Cup,” he added.
Meanwhile, the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic has also left the future of the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia starting from October 18 in jeopardy. The upcoming few days will be crucial as ICC is expected to take a call soon.