Why Rishabh Pant Must Replace KL Rahul vs New Zealand – CT 2025
India is getting ready for their final group-stage game in the Champions Trophy 2025. They will face New Zealand. Team selection is now a key topic of discussion. Both teams are unbeaten. This high-stakes match will decide who tops the group before the semifinals.
Rohit Sharma is back from his injury and will play. However, India may make a few strategic changes. Arshdeep Singh might take Mohammed Shami’s place. This would help keep the senior bowler fresh for the knockout rounds. A bold move could be bringing Rishabh Pant in for KL Rahul. This change might help India in several ways.
1) To Counter Mitchell Santner’s Left-Arm Spin
Rishabh Pant’s Stats vs Left-Arm Spin (Since 2023)
- Format: Tests (Limited ODI and T20I data available)
- Innings: 8
- Runs: 168
- Balls: 129
- Dismissals: 3
- Strike Rate: 130
Mitchell Santner is a key player for New Zealand. Since all of India’s top six batters are right-handers, he can easily take charge. Pant, a left-handed batsman, has a great record against left-arm spin. He could be the ideal counter to Santner’s threat.
India previously tried Axar Patel at No. 5. If KL Rahul can’t handle that role, it’s a good idea to bring in a specialist batter like Pant. He excels against left-arm spin.
2) Adding the X-Factor to India’s Batting
The Dubai pitch has been slow and sluggish, making it tough for batters to accelerate. In such conditions, Pant’s aggressive batting approach could disrupt the Kiwi bowlers.
- Pant’s ODI Strike Rate: 106
- Impact: Can handle clever New Zealand bowlers who adapt well to the conditions.
New Zealand’s attack is sharp and strategic. So, India must stay two steps ahead. Unlike Pakistan and Bangladesh, this requires careful planning. Pant’s fearless stroke play can break down the opposition’s game plan. This gives India an advantage.
Should India Pick Rishabh Pant Over KL Rahul?
Bringing Pant in for KL Rahul might be a smart move. He can counter Santner and add aggression to India’s innings. India needs a match-winner like Pant to change the game against New Zealand’s strong bowling.