Rishabh Pant didn't attend India's practice session. Photo: AP
Rishabh Pant was absent from India's practice session on the eve of the all-important Champions Trophy game against Pakistan. Virat Kohli kicked off the preparations nearly 3 hours before the team's scheduled practice session. Other players joined him a couple of hours later. Rishabh was forced to miss the practice session.
Speaking to the media on the eve of the game, Shubman Gill revealed that Rishabh is down with viral fever. He could accompany the team to the stadium if he is fit. But Rishabh is set to stay on the bench once again.
The wicketkeeper-batsman hasn't enjoyed the backing from the current team management in ODI cricket. Rishabh only played one ODI in Sri Lanka and stayed on the bench in all three ODIs against England. He was ignored for a place in the playing XI against Bangladesh as well.
KL Rahul has cemented his spot behind the wickets in ODIs. He kept the wickets in the 2023 ODI World Cup and there has been no looking back for him since then. Rishabh is a regular in Test cricket while his IPL form could decide his place in the T20I team.
Will India make a change in playing XI?
India are unlikely to make a change in their playing XI against Pakistan. Mohammed Shami made a memorable return in an ICC event while Harshit Rana lived up to the expectations in his maiden game in an ICC tournament.
Shubman Gill slammed a match-winning century as India chased down the target of 229 in 46.3 overs. KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 41 off 47 balls. Rohit Sharma also played his part in the win and hit 41 off 36 balls.
India and Pakistan will lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday (February 23). The fixture will start at 2:30 PM IST.
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