India's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy is scheduled to be revealed today. Captain Rohit Sharma, along with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, will address the media regarding the announcement. A key point of interest will be the selection of the backup wicketkeeper among Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Dhruv Jurel, while KL Rahul is anticipated to be named the primary wicketkeeper. The decision for the second wicketkeeper position is expected to spark considerable discussion.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has expressed his opinion that Sanju Samson should be favored over Rishabh Pant for the second wicketkeeper role. He argues that Samson has outperformed Pant and that the selectors should capitalize on his current form.

Sanju Samson has participated in 16 One Day Internationals, accumulating 510 runs with an impressive average of 56.66. In contrast, Rishabh Pant has a career average of 33.50 from 31 ODIs.

Samson, a right-handed batsman, has demonstrated exceptional form in white-ball cricket, having scored three centuries in his last five T20 International matches.

“Sanju Samson has surpassed expectations. It is important to recognize this. Rishabh Pant has a strong emotional connection with fans due to his match-winning capabilities in Test cricket. His performances at the Gabba and his century in South Africa are memorable. He excels in challenging overseas conditions and is a skilled wicketkeeper. While Rishabh Pant is arguably a superior wicketkeeper compared to Sanju Samson, nearing the standards set by MS Dhoni,” stated Mohammad Kaif on his YouTube channel.

“Nevertheless, in terms of batting, I believe Sanju Samson has taken the lead over Rishabh Pant. His recent batting displays have been remarkable, as he has scored centuries with ease in South Africa, hitting more sixes than fours. His ability to clear the boundary has become a significant asset, and he has shown remarkable consistency,” he concluded.

'Rishabh Pant needs to recognise reality'

Kaif asserts that Rishabh Pant must confront the reality of his performance, acknowledging that his statistics in white-ball cricket are not impressive. He emphasized that Sanju Samson merits an opportunity to be included in the Champions Trophy squad.

"Sanju made his T20I debut in Harare in 2015, with his second appearance occurring in 2020. The year 2024 marked the pinnacle of his career. His batting position has varied, sometimes opening and at other times batting in the middle order, which has prevented him from establishing a consistent role. Despite experiencing numerous highs and lows, he has not received unwavering support. I believe Sanju Samson has surpassed Rishabh Pant," Kaif remarked.

"Sanju Samson exhibits a calm demeanor at the crease. His experience as a leader in the IPL has been advantageous. He has reached a level of performance that warrants his inclusion alongside KL Rahul in the Champions Trophy squad," he continued.

Kaif elaborated, stating, “Rishabh Pant must acknowledge the truth. If individuals are suggesting that he is being treated unfairly, they are not providing sound advice. It is crucial for him to distance himself from such influences. He needs to understand that his white-ball statistics are lacking. Sanju Samson has rightfully earned the opportunity to participate in the Champions Trophy, and Rishabh Pant must dedicate himself to improvement.”

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