India National Cricket Team: Sanju Samson has reportedly moved ahead of Rishabh Pant in the race for India’s second wicketkeeper spot in the ODI setup, as selectors reassess options ahead of upcoming assignments. According to a report by Dainik Jagran, the team management is actively evaluating combinations, with KL Rahul continuing as the first-choice wicketkeeper in the 50-over format. Pant, who has been serving as the backup, could face competition from Samson following a dip in form.

Rishabh Pant has had an inconsistent IPL season, managing 189 runs in eight matches at an average of 27 and a strike rate of 126.85. While he has shown glimpses of form, he has struggled to build momentum. The left-hander has not featured in an ODI since August 2024.

Samson, meanwhile, has strengthened his case with strong recent performances. The wicketkeeper-batter has carried his form from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 into IPL 2026, where he has scored 304 runs in eight matches at an average of 50.67 and a strike rate of 169.83, including two centuries.

Pant’s ODI record stands at 871 runs in 31 matches at an average of 33.50, with one century and five fifties. Once viewed as the long-term successor to MS Dhoni, Pant has struggled to cement his place consistently, particularly after returning from a serious car accident in 2022.

In comparison, Samson has played 16 ODIs since his debut in 2021, scoring 510 runs at an average of 56.67, including one century and three fifties. His superior average and recent consistency have boosted his chances of reclaiming a spot in the ODI squad.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar are understood to be placing significant emphasis on current form as they shape India’s core squad for future tournaments.

With a packed international calendar ahead and long-term planning underway for the 2027 ODI World Cup, competition for the wicketkeeper’s role is expected to remain intense.