Rishabh Pant Faces a Defining Test as His White-Ball Future Hangs in the Balance
Rishabh Pant’s white-ball journey has reached an uncertain and testing phase, with recent developments suggesting that his place in India’s ODI and T20I setups is no longer guaranteed. Once seen as a long-term all-format mainstay, the dynamic left-hander now finds himself battling form, competition, and limited opportunities at a time when Indian white-ball cricket is becoming increasingly ruthless.
The immediate concern surrounds Pant’s likely omission from the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, a decision that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Rishabh last featured in an ODI against Sri Lanka in 2024 and, despite being part of recent squads — including a home series against South Africa — he has spent more time on the bench than in the middle. For a player known for thriving on confidence and momentum, the lack of consistent game time has been a significant hurdle.
Pant’s overall ODI numbers are far from alarming. In 31 matches since his debut, he averages around 33.50, a respectable return considering his role often demands aggressive intent. Yet modern white-ball selection is increasingly driven by immediate impact rather than long-term backing, and this is where Pant has slipped behind his competitors. While he was part of India’s victorious squads at the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, his involvement in the latter was minimal, largely serving as backup to KL Rahul, who remains firmly entrenched as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter.
The competition has intensified further due to outstanding domestic performances. Dhruv Jurel has been one of the standout performers in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing over 300 runs in just three innings for Uttar Pradesh. Jurel’s ability to build an innings, accelerate when required, and maintain composure under pressure has caught the selectors’ attention. His mental resilience, shaped by overcoming serious injuries earlier in his life, has only strengthened his case as a dependable middle-order option.
Rishabh Pant, Balance Between Form, Competition, and Confidence Will Decide His White-Ball Future
Adding to Pant’s selection headache is Ishan Kishan, who has been nothing short of explosive in the same tournament. Kishan’s blistering 125 off just 39 balls against Karnataka highlighted his ability to single-handedly change games. With 933 ODI runs at an average of 42.40, including a double century, Kishan’s white-ball credentials are already well established, making him a formidable rival for the backup wicketkeeper role.
Interestingly, Pant appears most at ease in Test cricket, where his natural aggression blends seamlessly with the format’s demands. As India’s Test vice-captain, his value in red-ball cricket remains unquestioned. However, in shorter formats, the constant pressure to score quickly seems to have introduced hesitation into his game. This contrast was evident in the IPL as well. Despite a record ₹27 crore retention ahead of the 2025 season, he managed only 269 runs at a strike rate below 140 — numbers that failed to justify the hype.
Statistically, Pant’s T20I record also paints a challenging picture. Across 76 matches, he averages 23.25 with a strike rate of 127.26, placing him at the lower end among established Indian top-seven batters. While there have been flashes of promise — including a crucial half-century — inconsistency has prevented him from cementing his spot.
To his credit, Pant has never shied away from hard work. Acknowledging the importance of domestic form, he proactively informed the Delhi & District Cricket Association of his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26. Strong performances there could yet reopen doors, especially if selectors seek a left-handed middle-order finisher who can change gears rapidly.
For Rishabh, the road ahead is demanding but familiar. He has defied odds before, most notably battling back from life-altering injuries to reclaim his place in international cricket. While the current phase may test his confidence, his belief in his own ability remains strong. In a white-ball ecosystem where form and immediate utility are non-negotiable, Pant’s challenge is clear: channel his trademark audacity into consistent performances and force the selectors’ hand once again.
