Captain KL Rahul said that Rishabh Pant is good enough to play as a specialist batsman if needed. India are scheduled to play the first of their three ODIs against Temba Bavuma in South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex on Sunday, November 30, and it is still not confirmed whether Pant will take the field.
The 28-year-old Pant has not featured in the 50-over format since India’s tour of Sri Lanka in August 2024. Rahul, who is leading India in the absence of the injured Shubman Gillkept all options open but made it clear that he would not be donning the wicketkeeper’s gloves if Pant was part of the XI for the series opener.
“Obviously Rishabh has missed out due to injury and again he is someone who has been with the team for a long time. Everyone has seen what he brings and what he can do for the team. As I answered them earlier, the players who are already in the team and have performed – sometimes you just have to wait for your opportunity,” Rahul said at the pre-match press conference.
“Tomorrow you will know who will play – me or him behind the stumps – but of course he is good enough to play as a batsman too. But if he is in the playing eleven then of course he will take the gloves and I will be in the field,” added Rahul.
RUTURAJ A WORLD CLASS PLAYER
Rahul also praised Ruturaj Gaikwad who is set to make a comeback after almost two years. Gaikwad is among the contenders to open the batting with Rohit Sharma alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. The 28-year-old Gaikwad last played an ODI during India’s 2023 tour of South Africa.
Gaikwad earned his return to the ODI team after his impressive performances in the One-Dayers against South Africa A, where he scored 117, 68 not out and 25. Rahul said that Gaikwad is a world-class prospect, but because the Indian team has a solid top order, players like Gaikwad often have to wait on the sidelines.
“Rutu is obviously a top player. We all saw that whatever limited opportunities he got, he used them well and showed what he can do. Unfortunately, in ODIs, the top five or six are quite balanced and perform well, so you feel sorry for the players who are not getting enough chances. But at the same time, you are happy that the group is doing well,” Rahul said.
“It’s unfortunate for those who are missing, but with a few injuries now he has an opportunity. He’ll get his chance at some stage. We’re looking forward to giving him that opportunity and letting him show what he can do. His skills have never been in question – it’s just about the right opportunity and timing. Hopefully this series will give him that chance,” added Rahul.
India recently slumped to 0-2 at the hands of the Proteas in the Test series and would now look to turn their fortunes around in the shorter format.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
November 29, 2025
