Rishabh Pant rested, not dropped in ODIs, says MSK Prasad

Rishabh Pant entered the record books by becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to score a Test century in Australia. With 350 runs in four matches, he finished as the second-highest run scorer in the series. Yet, the selectors decided to omit him from the one-day international side that will play Australia in a three-match series.

However, Chairman of selectors, MSK Prasad clarified that Pant is not in the side as a part of the workload management. Further, he went on record saying that the 21-year-old is definitely an option for the World Cup 2019 plans. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik are the other two options with the former being the primary wicket-keeper for the mega tournament.

Rishabh Pant is carrying a few niggles

“There is absolutely no doubt that he is among one of those wicketkeepers [for World Cup]. All the three shortlisted keepers are doing well. He is definitely part of pour World Cup plans. It’s a part of the workload management we are following,” Prasad told India Today’s Boria Majumdar in an exclusive interview.

Another reason for Rishabh Pant being rested is that he is carrying a few niggles as per the former cricketer. Prasad noted that the youngster needs some time to recover after the four high-intensity Tests against Australia.

“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.

“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 will be a turning point in his career,” Prasad added talking about Rishabh Pant.

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