Champions Trophy 2025: Rishabh Pant over KL Rahul in playing 11 as Ajit Agarkar speaks to Gautam Gambhir for wicketkeeper's inclusion - Report

India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar has pushed for Rishabh Pant's inclusion in the playing XI for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, citing the wicketkeeper-batter's impressive form in the nets, reported Cricblogger.

Agarkar has reportedly discussed the matter with head coach Gautam Gambhir, who initially opposed Rishabh Pant's selection in the 15-member squad due to concerns over his inconsistency in white-ball cricket.

While the team management remains uncertain about how to fit Rishabh Pant into the playing XI, sources suggest that Gambhir's stance is gradually shifting under Ajit Agarkar's influence. Rohit Sharma, who has had limited control over selection decisions due to Gambhir's strong presence, is also in favour of including Pant, recognising his match-winning potential.

A source close to the development told CricBlogger, "How the team management is going to accommodate Pant is a million-dollar question." With the tournament set to begin soon, discussions on whether Pant should replace KL Rahul as the primary wicketkeeper are ongoing.

Despite excluding Pant from all ODIs against England earlier this year, Gambhir may be reconsidering his position, given Agarkar's insistence and Pant's performances in training. If the shift happens, it will mark a significant turnaround from Gambhir's earlier tough stance on Pant's white-ball credentials.

Pant's case is further strengthened by his history of delivering in high-pressure games. A similar debate unfolded during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney, where Agarkar and Rohit reportedly backed Pant's place in the Test XI ahead of Dhruv Jurel.

Sources indicate that Rishabh Pant has strong backing from Delhi's cricketing circles, with many believing it would be a mistake to leave him out. "Pant is a match-winner; it will be a grave mistake to keep him away from the playing XI," the source added.

With India's Champions Trophy campaign set to begin, all eyes are on the final team selection. Whether Pant replaces KL Rahul or finds another spot in the XI remains a key talking point. However, with Agarkar and Rohit supporting his inclusion, Pant's return to India's white-ball setup appears increasingly likely.