I don't think there is any competition for Rishabh Pant: Chandu Borde

With the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup in line, there are a lot of speculations regarding India’s playing XI. 

The top four batters are almost confirmed with the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav. 

Rishabh Pant in Indian colours

However, a handful of cricket pundits are confused between Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik as India’s wicketkeeper-batter for the upcoming ICC event.

Pant is one of the most explosive batters of the current generation. While the 24-year-old has been absolutely lethal in the Test format, he is yet to prove himself in white-ball cricket. 

Borde backs Pant to reach new heights

However, former Indian cricketer and legendary team manager, Chandu Borde believes that Pant is a vital part of the Indian setup in all three formats and any of his contemporaries can not replace him.

“This is great competition within the team. Whoever performs will be part of the team. To be honest, I don't think there is any competition for Rishabh Pant. He is an automatic choice and will continue to be an important part of the team.

“Rishabh Pant is a player who can change the momentum of the game in no time, and he is not just a finisher - he can play anywhere and anytime,” Borde was quoted as saying by India TV.

Karthik is the biggest competitor for Pant

Furthermore, Borde added that the explosive southpaw has produced some unbelievable performances in his cricket career so far. Though the batter is yet to touch heights in white-ball cricket, he should be given space and time to improve his game.

Karthik remains the biggest competitor for Pant owing to his splendid performance in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore. They are the only two wicketkeepers selected in India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2022. Notably, both players have been rested for the ongoing three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe.

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