Why Rishabh Pant Isn’t Playing Today Against New Zealand in ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

Rishabh Pant, one of India’s most explosive wicketkeeper-batters, remains absent from the playing XI in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, including today’s crucial clash against New Zealand. Pant’s non-selection has raised several questions among fans, especially considering his match-winning abilities in white-ball cricket. However, his absence is not without reason.

Let’s break down why Rishabh Pant is not playing in today’s match against New Zealand.

Recent Health Concerns Impacting Pant’s Participation

Knee Injury During Practice

In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, Pant suffered a blow to his left knee while batting in a practice session at the ICC Academy in Dubai. Hardik Pandya’s powerful shot struck Pant’s knee, leaving him limping and requiring immediate medical attention. Although he continued practicing after strapping his knee, concerns about his full fitness lingered.

Viral Fever Before India vs Pakistan Match

Just before India’s blockbuster match against Pakistan, Pant was ruled out due to a viral fever. His illness kept him away from crucial training sessions and impacted his preparation for subsequent games. Even though he has recovered now, the team management has been cautious about bringing him back into the lineup.

Team Strategy: KL Rahul’s Role as Wicketkeeper-Batter

One of the biggest reasons for Pant’s continued absence is India’s tactical decision to play KL Rahul as the primary wicketkeeper-batter.

Rahul’s Solid Performance Behind the Stumps

KL Rahul has excelled with both the bat and the gloves, providing stability in India’s middle order. His recent performances have made it difficult for the management to replace him with Pant.

A Balanced Team Combination

India has prioritized an extra all-rounder or bowler to strengthen both the batting depth and bowling attack. This tactical approach has played a significant role in keeping Pant out of the XI.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate recently addressed Pant’s absence, stating:

“It’s been hard on Pant not playing, but team balance is the priority. We never know when an opportunity may arise.”

Is Rishabh Pant Fit to Play Now?

Yes, Rishabh Pant is currently fit and actively participating in training sessions. However, with KL Rahul performing well as the designated wicketkeeper, the team management has opted to stick with the existing combination.

Pant remains a valuable asset and could still play a key role in India’s campaign, especially if any changes in strategy or injuries arise.

Will Rishabh Pant Play in the Semi-Finals?

With India already securing a spot in the semi-finals, there is speculation about whether Pant could return for the knockout stage. His ability to counter-attack in pressure situations makes him a tempting option. However, unless there’s a major tactical shift or an injury to KL Rahul, Pant’s return to the playing XI remains uncertain.

Rishabh Pant’s exclusion from today’s match against New Zealand is a result of strategic decisions rather than fitness concerns. With KL Rahul excelling behind the stumps and India’s overall team balance working well, the management has decided to persist with the current combination.

As the Champions Trophy progresses, Pant’s return remains a possibility, especially in the high-pressure knockout matches where his fearless batting could prove crucial.

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