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

The much-awaited India vs Pakistan match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is underway, but fans have noticed Rishabh Pant missing from India’s playing XI. While most followers are aware of the reason, this blog is for those looking for an official confirmation and detailed insights into why Pant is not playing today.

Pant, a key asset to India’s batting and wicketkeeping lineup, was expected to play a crucial role in this high-stakes encounter. However, due to an unfortunate health setback, he has been ruled out. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why Is Rishabh Pant Not Playing Today?

1. Health Issues – Viral Fever Keeps Pant Out

Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of today’s match due to viral fever. Reports suggest that he missed India‘s final training session before the match against Pakistan because of his illness.

Key Updates on Pant’s Health:

The team management decided not to risk playing him as he was not fully recovered.

He was seen resting at the team hotel, with medical staff closely monitoring his condition.

No serious concerns have been reported, and he is expected to recover soon.

2. Official Statement from Team India Management

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed Pant’s absence, stating:

“Rishabh Pant is unwell and has been advised rest. KL Rahul will take over wicketkeeping duties for today’s match.”

This confirms that Pant’s exclusion is purely due to health concerns, and he will likely return once he has fully recovered.

How Does Rishabh Pant’s Absence Impact Team India?

1. KL Rahul Takes Over Wicketkeeping Duties

In Pant’s absence, KL Rahul has been named the wicketkeeper for today’s game. This is not unfamiliar territory for Rahul, as he has:

Previously kept wickets in ICC tournaments

Performed consistently as a batter-wicketkeeper in ODIs

A strong record against Pakistan

While Pant brings explosive batting and aggressive intent, Rahul’s composure and technical skills will ensure that India doesn’t lose balance in their lineup.

2. No Change in India’s Playing XI

Even without Pant, India has stuck to the same team that played against Bangladesh.

India’s Playing XI Today vs Pakistan:

Batters: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer

Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja

Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana

This shows India’s trust in their existing squad depth, with Rahul’s experience minimizing the disruption caused by Pant’s absence.

How Long Will Rishabh Pant Be Out?

According to sources within the Indian team camp:

Pant is expected to be available for India’s next match, provided he recovers in time.

The medical team will reassess his condition before India’s final group-stage game.

His availability for the knockout stages remains unaffected, barring any complications.

Fans can expect an official update on his condition before India’s next match.

Can India Win Without Rishabh Pant?

Despite missing Pant’s:

Aggressive batting style

Explosive middle-order presence

Sharp wicketkeeping skills

India still has a well-balanced squad, capable of handling pressure. With KL Rahul stepping in and India’s top-or…

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