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‘If You Make Changes:’ Aakash Chopra Backs KL Rahul, Agrees With Rishabh Pant's Exclusion

Poulomi Chakraborty

Aakash Chopra Backs KL Rahul For Champions Trophy (Source: @Kunal_KLR/x.com, @ImTanujSingh/x.com)Aakash Chopra Backs KL Rahul For Champions Trophy (Source: @Kunal_KLR/x.com, @ImTanujSingh/x.com)

Team India heads into the Champions Trophy with sky-high confidence after a commanding whitewash over England in the three-match ODI series. They have played dominating cricket, making their red-hot form a massive advantage for the upcoming mega tournament.

In the entire series, KL Rahul marked his attendance behind the stumps where Rishabh Pant was seen warming the bench. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has backed the decision to leave Rishabh Pant out of the three-match ODI series, agreeing with the team's strategic move.

Aakash Chopra Backs Team India’s Strategic Move

In the recently ended ODI series against England, KL Rahul played the wicketkeeper-batter’s role in all three matches. While he struggled in the first two games, he delivered an impressive 40 off 29 balls in the final ODI while excelling behind the stumps.

On the flip side, despite being named in the squad, Rishabh Pant didn’t feature in the series. When asked about this tactical call, former cricketer Aakash Chopra supported the decision, backing KL Rahul as the preferred choice.

“I can understand because Rahul had not scored runs in the first two matches. You moved him to No. 6 and he didn't score runs. When you have picked him as your first choice, you have to go through with it. If you make changes very quickly, the player loses confidence.” Aakash Chopra said.

Chopra On Pant’s Place In Champions Trophy

As the Champions Trophy nears, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant both have been named in the squad. Since all matches will be played in Dubai, Rahul’s impressive record in these conditions gives him an edge. His proven excellence in the 50-over format further strengthens his position over Pant.

Along with that, Axar Patel has also impressed while batting in the number 5 position in the recently ended ODI series and could be a valuable option. Weighing in on Pant’s chances, Aakash Chopra believes he is unlikely to make the playing XI.

“I feel Rishabh Pant has very minimal chances of playing even in the Champions Trophy. He won't get a chance to play because you will see Axar (Patel) only playing at No. 5 on the 20th.”

As the Champions Trophy is coming back after 8 long years, Team India is set to start their journey on February 20 against Bangladesh. With excitement running high, fans are hoping for another memorable tournament from the Men in Blue.