Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has weighed in on India's wicket-keeper conundrum ahead of the World Cup 2023.
With Rishabh Pant still uncertain for the marquee tournament, the team seeks a replacement and a reserve keeper.
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KL Rahul's fitness could earn him a spot in the team for the Asia Cup, serving as a middle-order batter and wicket-keeper.
Moreover, Ganguly has suggested Ishan Kishan's inclusion in the 15-member squad for both Asia Cup and the World Cup. He remarked that while Pant is the best keeper, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are strong contenders and must be considered while selecting the team.
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What did Sourav Ganguly say about India's wicket-keeping choices?
"Pant is the best wicket-keeper in the country, but you can see Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul (depending on their fitness); these two will be right up in Rohit’s and Rahul’s minds," said Ganguly.
"I like Ishan Kishan because he just opens up the game for any team. I am sure Dravid will keep him in his plans," he further added.
Pant is on the road to recovery. He has been able to get back in the nets, and has faced bowling of 140 kph as well. He was seen batting in a practice match on Tuesday afternoon.
Pant underwent treatment and training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru earlier, and is now continuing to step up his fitness at the Inspire Institute for Sport (IIS) in Vijayanagar. The Institute is owned by the JSW Group, majority owners of Pant's IPL team, Delhi Capitals.
Who are Sourav Ganguly's top five picks for the ICC World Cup title?
Ganguly feels India will be among the favourites in the upcoming World Cup.
"I presume Australia will be one; England, Pakistan, don't rule New Zealand out; and then there's South Africa...
"But if you ask my best five at the moment, it's Australia, England, India, Pakistan and New Zealand," he said.
MORE: WATCH: Rishabh Pant bats during practice match as he steps up injury recovery
