Big Setback for Rishabh Pant as Gautam Gambhir Hints at KL Rahul as First-Choice Keeper for Champions Trophy

India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, said that  KL Rahul is the team’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Even though Rishabh Pant is in the squad, Gambhir explained that Rahul’s steady performances have secured his place, meaning Pant will have to wait for his turn. Gambhir said, “KL is our No. 1 wicketkeeper right now. Rishabh Pant will get his chance, but at the moment, KL has performed well, and we can’t play two wicketkeeper-batters.”  

Rahul was India’s wicketkeeper in the three match ODI series against England. He struggled with the bat in the first two games, scoring only 2 and 10. However, he played very well in the third match, scoring a quick 40 off 29 balls, helping India for a big total of 356. He was also sharp behind the stumps, taking three catches and completing two stumpings.  

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Rahul(consistent wicketkeeper-batter), performing well in the 2023 ODI World Cup. He scored 452 runs at an average of 75.33, including a crucial  97 against Australia. His solid performances have strengthened his position in the team.  On the other side, Rishabh Pant is still waiting for his chance. After recovering from a long injury break, he has played just one ODI, scoring six runs against Sri Lanka. While he is known for his aggressive batting, the team management prefers Rahul’s reliability.   

Gambhir said that, “We don’t just look at stats; we look at who can perform when it matters.” This shows that the team is focused on choosing players based on match situations rather than just numbers. Gambhir’s support for Rahul means Pant will have to wait for his opportunity. The competition for the wicketkeeper spot is intense, but for now, KL Rahul remains India’s first choice.