Overview
- India’s selectors are set to name the ODI squad for New Zealand soon, with the three-match series starting January 11 in Vadodara.
- Multiple outlets report Pant is expected to be omitted despite not getting a single ODI in the last 18 months and only one since his 2024 comeback.
- KL Rahul has cemented the wicketkeeper spot, and with three keepers seen as a luxury in a 15, Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel have strengthened bids through recent domestic scores.
- Pant’s Vijay Hazare campaign has been mixed, featuring one 70-plus in four games after limited white-ball chances since returning from his 2023 accident.
- Ex-India keeper Deep Dasgupta questioned Pant’s role clarity in T20s and urged sustained runs, as reports note at least one team-management voice prefers a more traditional batting style.