with 2027 ODI World Cup Slowly coming into focus, the biggest selection debate involving the Indian team revolves around the position of the wicketkeeper. India have a number of talented options who are capable of playing this role, but it is important to settle on a regular first-choice player if the team hopes to build a stable and balanced combination ahead of the global event. A consistent presence behind the stumps and in the middle order could prove crucial as the management looks to finalize its long-term plans.
Irfan Pathan reveals first choice wicketkeeper for India in ODIs
Although India has many quality wicketkeeper-batsmen, players prefer KL RahulIshaan Kishan And sanju samson All of them have made compelling cases with their performances over the years. Choosing between them is not easy at all. However, the former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan The ICC has made its priority clear by naming Rahul as the country’s first-choice wicketkeeper in the 50-over format, while also outlining backup options. Speaking to JioStar, Pathan praised Rahul’s adaptability and reliability in the middle order.
“KL Rahul is India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs. He has done well at numbers five and six. He is versatile. As a backup, the selectors have brought in Ishan Kishan. Ishan can bat higher up the order and play the short ball well in the square of the wicket. It is a smart selection. So, Rahul and Ishan are the two wicketkeeper-batsmen at the moment.” Pathan said.
The former cricketer also highlighted Samson’s abilities and insisted that the Kerala batsman deserves to be firmly in the contention.
“The third row should be Sanju Samson. Whenever he has got a chance, he has performed well. We saw that in the T20 World Cup.” He added.
experience is the key
Rahul’s ability to build on the innings while accelerating when required has made him a reliable asset in ODI cricket. His experience of batting at different positions as well as his calm attitude under pressure has strengthened his claim as India’s favorite wicketkeeper-batsman.
Meanwhile, Kishan offers a contrasting style with his aggressive stroke play at the top of the order, offering flexibility depending on the team’s requirements. Samson also remains in the team after taking advantage of many opportunities in international cricket.
Also read: Irfan Pathan highlights Rohit Sharma’s ‘biggest strength’ ahead of IND vs AFG ODI series
Way out for Rishabh Pant?
Increasing competition may be missed Rishabh Pant Facing an uphill battle to regain a regular ODI spot. Pant, once considered India’s undisputed first-choice wicketkeeper across formats, has struggled for consistency in recent times, especially of late. ipl 2026Questions are being raised about his immediate future in the 50-over setup.
However, it is too early to write him off completely. Pant is one of India’s most naturally talented match-winners, and there is still plenty of time before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Strong performances in domestic cricket and a return to form could soon bring them back into contention.
