MSK Prasad tells reason behind Pant's omission from ODI squad
Rishabh Pant was not named in the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia. The 21-year-old has been a prime force in Test cricket for India and it came as a surprise for many to see him not make the cut. However, the BCCI's chief selector MSK Prasad has given the rationale behind this decision. Here are the details.
Pant had an excellent Test series
India opted for the experienced duo of MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik for the three-match ODI series against the Aussies. The ODI squad was announced in December. Pant finished the Test series as the second-highest run-scorer behind Cheteshwar Pujara. He amassed 350 runs from seven innings and scored a superb 159* in the fourth and final Test at the SCG.
Pant part of 2019 World Cup plans
MSK Prasad told India Today that the youngster is part of the World Cup plans. Prasad said, "There is absolutely no doubt that he is among one of those wicket-keepers [for World Cup]. All the three shortlisted keepers are doing well. He is definitely part of our World Cup plans." He added, "It's a part of the workload management we are following."
Pant will come back much stronger: MSK
"You have seen how many players we are resting these days. This kid has played the T20s and the four high-intensity Tests. The body also takes a wear and tear. I am sure he will come back much stronger," Prasad said about Pant.
MSD to don keeping role against Australia and New Zealand
Dhoni is expected to don the wicket-keeping role in the ODIs versus Australia and then New Zealand. Pant will be seen playing for India A, when they take on England Lions in a five-match one-day series. Further, he is a part of the T20I squad for the series against the Kiwis and will return to the fold, once it starts.
Pant was given his ODI break in 2018
Pant was given his ODI break last year against West Indies at home. He scored just 41 runs from three matches and was dropped to the bench. With Dhoni set to be the keeper in the World Cup, Pant's actual journey in ODIs might start after the coveted event. India face Australia at home in ODIs, post the completion of the series against Kiwis.
