Gavaskar Tips Pant for India’s T20 World Cup Opener: Wicketkeeping Skills Give Left-hander the Edge

The issue of India’s wicketkeeper-batsman for the opening game against Ireland on June 5 has not been settled even before the start of the T20 World Cup. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that Rishabh Pant may score over Sanju Samson because a keeper of his class adds value to the team.

Samson’s Recent Form And How His Keeping Skills Swing Gavaskar

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While both Pant and Samson impressed during IPL 2024, leading to their selection in the World Cup squad, the question of who would start remained unanswered. The recent warm-up match against Bangladesh offered a glimpse into the team’s strategy, with skipper Rohit Sharma opting to open with Samson and batting Pant at number three. However, Samson failed to capitalise on the opportunity, dismissed for just one run. Meanwhile, Pant showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 53 off 32 balls before retiring hurt in India’s convincing 60-run win.

Analysng this scenario, Gavaskar, speaking to Star Sports, emphasised the importance of wicketkeeping skills. “Yes, I think simply because if you compare the wicketkeeping abilities then Rishabh Pant is a better wicketkeeper than Samson,” he stated. He acknowledged both players’ batting talents but highlighted Pant’s recent form. “Rishabh Pant in the last few matches has batted really well. On the other hand, Sanju Samson started the IPL season superbly but tapered off in the latter stages,” he elaborated.

Samson’s Missed Opportunity and Pant’s IPL Record

Gavaskar pointed out Samson’s underwhelming performances in his last four IPL matches, where he managed scores of 15, 18, 17, and 10. He suggested that a substantial score against Bangladesh could have solidified Samson’s position. “This was an opportunity for him actually the match against Bangladesh. If he had scored about 50-60 then there would have been no question,” he said. However, Gavaskar believes the selection committee leans towards Pant due to his overall skillset. “I do feel that the Indian selection committee will look at having Rishabh Pant as the keeper,” he added.

It’s worth noting that Pant emerged as the leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in the IPL, amassing 446 runs in 13 innings at an impressive average of 40.54 and a blistering strike rate of 155.40, including three half-centuries. On the other hand, while not the highest run-scorer, Samson finished as the top-scoring wicketkeeper in the entire IPL, accumulating 531 runs in 15 innings with an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.46, decorated with five half-centuries.

A Close Contest for the Wicketkeeper’s Spot

Although the views of Gavaskar make it clear what the selection committee is possibly thinking, the final verdict on which wicketkeeper-batsman will be named for the opening game is yet to be seen. Pant and Samson have incredible talent to harness, and the team management will have to ponder over an actual tough decision based on current form, experience, and overall team balance.

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