India’s Wicketkeeping Dilemma: Ryan ten Doeschate Weighs KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant Ahead of Champions Trophy Clash

Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant Dilemma

As India gears up for a pivotal clash against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the spotlight remains firmly on the wicketkeeping debate between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate recently addressed this hot topic, shedding light on the challenges faced by the team in making this crucial selection.

Performance Under Pressure

While Rahul has performed admirably in key moments, including a noteworthy innings against Bangladesh, ten Doeschate emphasized the significance of keeping Pant match-ready. “It’s been very hard on Rishabh not playing, but that’s the nature of sport at this level,” he remarked, acknowledging Rahul’s contributions despite limited opportunities.
Rahul himself admitted to feeling the weight of the competition, recognizing Pant’s immense talent and the temptation for the team to include him in the lineup. “There is — I won’t lie. He’s obviously a very, very talented player,” Rahul stated, highlighting the ongoing dilemma for selectors.

The Importance of Depth in Squad

With both players being top-tier wicketkeepers, ten Doeschate stressed the value of having two players of such caliber ready to step in as needed. “We’ve got to keep Rishabh up and running. We never know when we’re going to need him,” he affirmed. This depth not only enhances team dynamics but also ensures that the squad remains competitive.

Looking Ahead

As India approaches their encounter with New Zealand, the Rahul-Pant debate continues to be a talking point, showcasing both the strength and selection challenges within the squad. With the tournament’s high stakes, the focus remains on delivering a stellar performance.
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