KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant as Champions Trophy 2025 Wicketkeeper? Sourav Ganguly Reveals Stance on Gautam Gambhir’s Pick, Says ‘Little to Choose’

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Ever since KL Rahul was confirmed as Team India’s No. 1 option behind the stump in Champions Trophy 2025 by head coach Gautam Gambhir, the debate over the Men in Blue’s first-choice wicketkeeper has been a major talking point.

Pant, who was once India's first-choice wicketkeeper across formats, missed out on game time in the ODI series against England and has now found himself on the sidelines for the Champions Trophy.

Rahul, on the other hand, has strengthened his case with strong performances, including an unbeaten 41 and three catches in India's opening match against Bangladesh. Addressing the selection dilemma, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly weighed in on why Gambhir opted for Rahul over Pant.

Sourav Ganguly on KL Rahul vs Rishabh Pant in Champions Trophy 2025

Speaking on the topic, Ganguly acknowledged India's depth in wicketkeeping options, stating that both KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant are exceptional players. He backed Gambhir’s decision to go with Rahul over Pant, with whom he has worked with in Delhi Capitals, citing the former’s strong ODI record and reliability behind the stumps.

“India is such a strong side, especially in batting, that anybody and everybody can play in the squad,” Ganguly said. “Rishabh Pant is very good, KL Rahul is very good. KL Rahul's numbers in ODIs are amazing. I think that's the reason that Gautam Gambhir has decided on KL Rahul. There's very little to choose because both are exceptional.”

Sourav Ganguly on Mohammed Shami’s Role in Bumrah’s Absence

Apart from the wicketkeeping debate, Ganguly also spoke about Mohammed Shami’s importance in India’s bowling attack, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

“I said earlier that Bumrah needs Shami, and Shami needs Bumrah. Unfortunately, Bumrah is not fit for this tournament, but Shami is. I’m not surprised with his five wickets against Bangladesh. He will continue to lead the attack in the entire tournament.”

Shami, playing his first ICC event since undergoing heel surgery in 2024, proved his worth immediately by scalping a five-wicket haul in India's opening match against Bangladesh. His ability to swing the ball both ways and bowl with pinpoint accuracy makes him a vital asset, especially in Bumrah’s absence.

Recognising Shami’s impact, Ganguly added, “Obviously, Bumrah is the best bowler in the world at the moment, but Shami is not too far behind. My only thing is that he stays fit right throughout the tournament and shoulders the responsibility of bowling like Bumrah has done without Shami at the other end.”

After their win in the opening match against Bangladesh, Team India will now face arch-rivals Pakistan in Match 5 on Sunday, February 23.