Aakash Chopra believes IPL 2025 is key for Pant's return
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has stressed how crucial the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season is for Rishabh Pant's return to India's T20I squad.
Pant, currently absent from the national T20 setup, will represent Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025.
Chopra said this season could make a huge difference in Pant's chances of returning to India's T20I team, calling it "his season" to prove his worth, he said on his YouTube channel.
Here's more.
Performance pressure
Pant's IPL performance crucial for T20I comeback
Chopra feels Pant's IPL performance will be key for his return to the T20I squad.
He said, "People are surprised as to why such a strong player is unable to get set in T20s. So, this is your season, sir. Come and score so many runs so that everyone is shaken."
This highlights the importance of IPL 2025 in Pant's international cricket future.
Position strategy
Pant's batting position: A strategic decision
Chopra also spoke about Pant's batting position, advising him to not compete directly with Sanju Samson but rather focus on making his own place.
He said, "You don't have to compete with Sanju. You have to make your own place properly."
Chopra said there's no need for the wicketkeeper-batter to bat above No. 3 or No. 4, giving strategic advice to maximize his impact in the IPL.
Team dynamics
Chopra hints at possible changes in T20I team
Chopra hinted at possible changes in the current T20I team before next year's T20 World Cup.
He said, "I am still not convinced that the T20 team playing currently will play next year as well. The T20 selections are going to be very dynamic."
This means Pant's performance in the upcoming IPL season could play a huge role in his selection for future international tournaments.
Leadership challenge
Pant's dual role as captain and player
As LSG's captain, Pant also shoulders the additional responsibility of captaining a new franchise.
Chopra concluded this IPL season will be instrumental in deciding who progresses and makes his place again in the T20I squad.
He sees "a huge opportunity for Rishabh Pant as a captain with a new franchise and as a batter," highlighting the double challenge that awaits Pant.
Numbers
Pant's 2024 IPL overall T20I numbers
During the 2024 season, Pant amassed 446 runs at an average of 40.55. He also boasted a strike rate of 155.40 across 13 matches.
He also, hammered three fifties with a high score of 88*.
According to ESPNcricinfo, he owns 1,209 T20I runs at 23.25, across 76 matches.
In 66 innings, he boasts a strike rate of 127.26, alongside three fifties and a high score of 65*.