Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, New Zealand
Rishabh Pant (Image Credit: Google)

Virat Kohli’s decision to drop the wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant from the Playing XI against New Zealand in the first T20I match has somewhat astonished cricket fanatics. In place of Delhi-based youngster, KL Rahul has been assigned for the wicketkeeping role.

In the last ODI series against Australia, Pant was ruled out of the second ODI because of concussion in the first game at Wankhede. His absence in the squad gave the chance to Rahul, who dons gloves for Karnataka in the domestic fixtures. Also, Rahul proved to be a fruitful replacement of the southpaw behind the stumps.

Also, Rahul acted as the beneficial finisher in the second game where he scored 80 runs off 52 balls. While he had also impressed with his glovework after stumping Aaron Finch. His ability to score in middle as well keeping the gloves has given him priority ahead of Pant who has been now and then criticized for his poor suggestion for the DRS.

KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, New Zealand

In the post-match conference, after winning the ODI series against the Kangaroo, Virat Kohli had praised the ability of Rahul.

Also, Kohli hinted that he will now be the priority for the team.

Thus, Pant’s exclusion from playing XI, in the first T20I match in Auckland, saw Twitter users trolling Pant.

New Zealand vs India 2020: Here are some Twitter Reaction on Rishabh Pant’s ouster:

https://twitter.com/Abhijee22691599/status/1220588069604208642?s=20

https://twitter.com/Sujan62290818/status/1220538507736707072?s=20

https://twitter.com/CricJammy_12/status/1220620484502376448?s=20

https://twitter.com/Gautam40554762/status/1220401891428859904?s=20