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KL Rahul: Rishabh Pant Ready as Specialist Batter, Will Keep Wickets if Selected vs South Africa
Ahead of India’s first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, KL Rahul reiterated that Rishabh Pant is fully capable of featuring purely as a specialist batter if needed. However, he also clarified that if Pant makes the playing XI on Sunday, he will take over the wicketkeeping duties.
Pant, 28, has been away from ODI cricket since August 2024. With Shubman Gill sidelined due to injury, Rahul is leading the team and said India will reveal their final XI only on match day. He added that Pant’s return strengthens the squad, and his versatility provides valuable options.
Rahul explained that Pant’s long association with the team and proven match-winning ability make him an asset, but selection depends on balance and team needs. “If he is in the eleven, he will keep wickets, and I’ll be on the field,” Rahul said.
The captain also spoke highly of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is set for an ODI comeback after nearly two years. Gaikwad impressed in the South Africa A series with scores of 117, 68*, and 25, pushing his case strongly. Rahul called him a “world-class player” who has maximized every opportunity but has faced stiff competition due to India’s settled top order.
With India looking to bounce back from a 0–2 Test series defeat to South Africa, the ODI series offers a fresh chance to regain momentum and test combinations ahead of a busy cricketing calendar.
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Published: Nov 29, 2025
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