India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that Lokesh Rahul is the team’s preferred wicketkeeper for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, effectively ruling out Rishabh Pant from the playing eleven in the immediate future. Addressing the media after India’s commanding 142-run victory in the third one-day international against England, Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Lokesh Rahul remains the first-choice wicketkeeper, while Rishabh Pant has not been considered for a place in the starting lineup.
Despite being part of the squad for the England series, Rishabh Pant was the only player who did not get a start under Gautam Gambhir, as all other squad members were given at least one opportunity. Lokesh Rahul, who initially struggled at number six in the first two games, looked far more comfortable at number five, playing a crucial 40-run knock off 29 balls in India’s final victory of the series. When asked about Rishabh Pant’s absence, Gautam Gambhir stated that although he remains part of the squad, the current plan prioritizes Lokesh Rahul’s experience and contributions.
“Ultimately, it is very difficult to talk about individuals. But all I can say is that if he is part of the squad, when the time comes, he might get an opportunity. But at the moment, obviously, Lokesh Rahul is the number one wicketkeeper, and he has delivered for us,” Gautam Gambhir said at the post-match press conference. He further emphasized that when a squad includes two wicketkeepers, it is impractical to play both, considering the depth of talent available. He advised Rishabh Pant to stay prepared for any opportunity that might arise in the future but reaffirmed that Lokesh Rahul would start.
Gautam Gambhir also reflected on India’s performance in the series, acknowledging that while not all aspects were perfect, the team delivered a professional and determined performance. He highlighted the team’s approach to the final one-day international, despite it being a dead rubber, as an attempt to simulate the pressure of a must-win situation. The head coach praised the squad for rising to the challenge with an all-round effort.
Addressing criticism and comparisons between different formats, Gautam Gambhir cautioned against judging players after every innings, using Shubman Gill as an example. He pointed out that Shubman Gill, who excelled in the one-day international series with two fifties and a century, had faced challenges on bouncy Australian pitches in Test cricket. Gautam Gambhir stressed the need to trust young players and give them time to mature rather than evaluating them on a game-by-game basis.
The head coach also provided insight into India’s decision to rotate fast bowler Mohammed Shami during the Twenty20 international and one-day international series, confirming that the move was aimed at workload management. Mohammed Shami played two games in each format, ensuring he remains fresh and fully prepared for the Champions Trophy. With the tournament approaching, Gautam Gambhir and the team management are focused on assembling a squad with the right balance of experience and form to challenge for the prestigious title.
