IND vs ENG, 1st ODI: Rishabh Pant Left Out – KL Rahul Takes the Wicketkeeper’s Spot
Pant Dropped – KL Rahul named India’s First-Choice Wicketkeeper in the 1st ODI against England.
India’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant did not find a place in the playing XI for the first ODI against England in Nagpur. The team management preferred KL Rahul, who solidified his position as the primary wicketkeeper in the 50-over format during Pant’s absence in 2023.
The decision sparked debates among fans, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaching. Pant’s return to ODIs was unimpressive, as he played only one match in 2024. Meanwhile, Rahul had a stellar campaign in the 2023 World Cup, scoring 452 runs in 10 matches at an average of 75.33. He also completed 17 dismissals.
England won the toss and chose to bat first. India handed debuts to Yashasvi Jaiswal and fast bowler Harshit Rana.