In a major setback for Team India ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the tournament due to a leg fracture sustained while attempting a reverse sweep during a Test match in England. The development poses a significant change in India’s squad composition and leadership dynamics for the tournament.
Pant’s Injury Dashes Return Hopes
Rishabh Pant had made a courageous return to cricket earlier this year following a long recovery from a near-fatal car accident in late 2022. However, during the England Test series, he suffered a fracture to his leg while executing an aggressive shot. Despite initial optimism that he might recover in time for the Asia Cup, medical reports now confirm that Pant will remain out of action for a few more weeks, effectively ruling him out of the continental championship.
Pant was widely expected to be included in the squad due to his excellent performances in recent Test matches and his role as vice-captain in the red-ball format. His absence now leaves a crucial spot open in India’s playing XI.
Who Will Replace Rishabh Pant? Wicketkeeping Options Explored
With Pant out of the picture, the Indian selectors have three main contenders to fill the wicketkeeper’s role for the Asia Cup 2025:
- Sanju Samson
- Jitesh Sharma
- Dhruv Jurel
Among the three, Sanju Samson emerges as the front-runner. His flexibility to bat both as an opener and in the middle order, combined with his experience, makes him a strong candidate. Statistically, Samson boasts 861 runs in 42 T20 Internationals with an impressive strike rate of over 152, including three centuries and two half-centuries. His highest T20I score is 111.
In contrast, Jitesh Sharma has played only nine T20Is, scoring 100 runs at a strike rate of 147, with a highest score of 35. Dhruv Jurel, who made his mark during Pant’s earlier absence in the England series, has played just four T20Is, scoring only 12 runs at a strike rate of 52, numbers that don’t yet inspire confidence at the highest level.
Given the disparity in form and experience, Samson is expected to be the primary wicketkeeper, with either Sharma or Jurel being drafted as backup.
What About KL Rahul?
Veteran wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul was also in consideration, but sources suggest that Rahul may not be part of the T20 squad, as the current selection philosophy under new leadership emphasizes youth. Rahul’s focus may shift more towards ODIs and Tests, as Gautam Gambhir’s era as team mentor signals a fresh direction.
A New-Look Indian Squad in the Making
With Pant out and selectors leaning toward youth, the Asia Cup 2025 could witness the inclusion of emerging stars such as:
- Shubman Gill
- Sai Sudharsan
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
The team is expected to undergo a generational transition, blending experience with promising talent. Sanju Samson’s selection as first-choice wicketkeeper will also be a pivotal part of this evolving setup.
Final Squad Announcement Expected Soon
The official Asia Cup squad announcement is anticipated in the third week of August, at which point the final decision on the wicketkeeping roles will be confirmed. However, as of now, Samson is all but confirmed to wear the gloves for India in the absence of Rishabh Pant.
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