Follow UsKL Rahul has pipped Rishabh Pant in becoming India's first-choice wicketkeeper. Not only is he a safe bet behind the wickets, but he has also been consistent with the bat, which has kept Pant out of the 50-over format.
It is the same case at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well, where Rahul has played in all the games and has done justice having scored 41*, 23 and 42* in the three innings so far.
Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer believes India have a good headache as far as picking a 'keeper is concerned, but according to him, there is no room for Pant India's XI at the moment.
"For India, it is a very healthy position to be in. Rahul has not done much wrong. Rishabh is very good, a batter who is a destroyer. He is just unlucky that both of them are there at the same time," Engineer said after being felicitated by Madras Cricket Club.
"There is an argument that Rishabh can come in as an additional batter, but India have got many all-rounders. There is no room in the playing XI. It is wonderful to see Indian cricket thrive and I am proud of it."
Engineer also said Varun Chakravarthy reminded him of BS Chandrasekhar. Engineer has spent many years behind the wickets with Chandrasekhar weaving his magic with the ball.
"India have class spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Varun. You know what, Varun reminds me of BS Chandrasekhar. It is wonderful that India are playing to their strengths [by using four spinners]. Horses for courses depending on the pitches they are playing," Engineer said.
Engineer has also backed India to go all the way, but at the same time, has warned against complacency against a strong New Zealand unit.
"I am fancying India to win it, but they should not get too complacent because NZ is a good side. India should not underestimate NZ just because they beat them fairly easily before [group stage]. Rachin Ravindra is a fantastic player… if he gets going… if Kane Williamson gets going, there are several others. It will not be easy for India," the 87-year-old said ahead of the final.
India take on New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final - in a repeat of the 2000 edition - in Dubai on March 9 (Sunday).