Former Indian cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath expressed his candid views regarding the selection of a wicketkeeper-batter for the Champions Trophy, specifically choosing between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. The Indian management faces a challenging decision as the forthcoming three-match ODI series will significantly influence their choice.

In recent years, Rahul has served as the primary wicketkeeper-batter for India in the 50-over format, particularly during Pant's absence due to a series of injuries sustained in a serious car accident in 2023.

Badrinath acknowledged that Rahul has performed adequately in the wicketkeeping role; however, he emphasized the necessity for an X-factor, which he believes Pant possesses. He also expressed a strong conviction that Pant is destined to lead the Indian team in the future.

"There is one more spot, which is between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. I still think it's a 50-50 decision. Yes, KL Rahul has done well and he has been in good form, but I want that X-factor. I am a big fan of Rishabh Pant. I think Rishabh Pant is a future captain in multiple formats," Badrinath stated during an interview with Star Sports.

In the solitary ODI series India participated in last year, Rahul was initially favoured against Sri Lanka, but Pant was subsequently included in the lineup for later matches.

‘X-factor was missing in the World Cup final’

Badrinath proposed that Rishabh Pant, as a potential captain, should be granted an extended opportunity within the team. He remarked that India felt his absence during the 2023 ODI World Cup final, noting the lack of an X-factor in the lineup. While Rahul had an outstanding performance throughout the ODI World Cup 2023, his slow fifty in the final was subject to criticism.

"I am uncertain about the specific formats, certainly in Test cricket, and likely in white-ball cricket as well. Therefore, I advocate for providing Rishabh Pant with an extended opportunity, considering his left-handed batting and the unique qualities he brings to the team. Such attributes are essential, and their absence was evident in the World Cup final," Badrinath further elaborated.

Read Also: Zaheer Khan Updates on Mayank Yadav's Recovery: 'We Want Him 150% Fit for IPL 2025'

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!