Former player brings up generational talent angle as Rishabh Pant vs Sanju Samson debate heats up

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that Rishabh Pant was chosen over Sanju Samson for India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad due to Pant’s status as a ‘generational talent.’ However, Chopra also pointed out that regardless of who was selected between the two, neither would have made it into the playing XI.

The Champions Trophy is set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai starting from February 19. Recently, the selectors named a 15-member squad for the tournament, with KL Rahul and Pant chosen as the two wicketkeeper-batters.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, ‘Aakash Chopra,’ the former player turned commentator discussed the reasoning behind India’s squad selection for the Champions Trophy. Regarding Pant’s selection over Samson, he mentioned (0:10):

“Rishabh Pant, a generational talent, has been selected, but it’s disappointing that Sanju Samson didn’t make the squad. Pant will serve as the backup keeper. There was definitely a tough call between Samson and Pant, and no matter who was chosen, one would have had to sit out.”

“Ultimately, this decision sends a clear message about the direction the team intends to follow. Do they back Sanju, or do they put their faith in Rishabh Pant? This debate has sparked a lot of conversation on platforms like X, especially since Samson has such a dedicated following.”

The former India opener also mentioned that Rishabh Pant, having already proven his skill in Tests, deserves similar opportunities in white-ball cricket.

“Rishabh Pant is a once-in-a-generation player. At just 25, he’s achieved what some of India’s finest wicketkeeper-batsmen couldn’t accomplish in their careers. Pant has proven himself across England, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. While he’s not yet fully settled in white-ball cricket, I believe he deserves more opportunities. I want him to stay in the mix, so I’m not at all surprised by this choice,” Chopra explained.

Pant’s ODI record is somewhat underwhelming, with 871 runs at an average of 33.50 from 27 innings. However, he may have been favored over Samson, who has scored 510 runs at an impressive average of 56.67 from 14 ODI innings, primarily because Pant offers a left-handed batting option in the middle order.

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