Pant Definitely Part of India's World Cup Plans: MSK Prasad

Cricketnext Staff | Updated: January 8, 2019, 8:25 PM IST

Rishabh Pant is not a part of India's One-Day International squad for the series against Australia and later New Zealand, but chief selector MSK Prasad insisted the wicket-keeper is a part of the side's World Cup plans.

The 21-year-old Pant has played only three ODIs for 41 runs, and lost out to Dinesh Karthik for the second keeper's slot. MS Dhoni remains the first-choice keeper, but Prasad explained that Pant is in the race as well.

“There is absolutely no doubt that (Pant) is among one of those wicketkeepers (for the World Cup). All the three shortlisted keepers are doing well. He is definitely part of our World Cup plans. It’s a part of the workload management we are following,” Prasad told India Today.

Pant was the second highest run-getter in the recently concluded four-Test series against Australia, where he scored 350 runs including an unbeaten 159 in Sydney. He will now be a part of the India A squad to play five one-dayers against England Lions.

“He is the only wicketkeeper to score hundred in England and Australia. We have given him some targets. We have set him he has to finish the matches and come. This Sydney Test match (where he scored a 189-ball 159) will be a turning point in his career,” Prasad said.

"You have seen how many players we are resting these days. This kid has played the T20s and the four high-intensity Tests. Body also takes a wear and tear. He is having a few niggles, he needs to recover. I am sure he will come back much stronger."

The first of the three ODIs against Australia starts on January 12 in Sydney. India will then play five ODIs in New Zealand.