Sanjay Manjrekar picks ideal replacement for Rishabh Pant in India’s Champions trophy XI

India started their ODI series against England on a strong note, clinching a four-wicket victory in the opening match. While Rishabh Pant was included in the squad, KL Rahul continued as the preferred wicketkeeper-batter. However, Rahul had a disappointing outing, managing only two runs.

Now, former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has weighed in on India’s selection dilemma, suggesting a strong alternative to Pant in the playing XI for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.

Axar Patel’s Batting Heroics Spark Debate

One of the key highlights of the first ODI was Axar Patel’s impressive batting display. Promoted to No. 5 ahead of Rahul, Axar played a match-winning knock of 52 off 47 balls, hitting six boundaries and a six. His crucial 108-run partnership with Shubman Gill played a pivotal role in India’s successful chase.

Manjrekar’s Take on the Middle-Order Conundrum

Speaking on ESPN Cricinfo, Sanjay Manjrekar revealed that he initially saw Pant as an important middle-order option to bring a left-hander into the top six or seven for the Champions Trophy. However, Axar’s composed innings in the first ODI has given the team another solid option.

"Before the match, I had suggested Rishabh Pant as a possible middle-order batter for the Champions Trophy, ensuring a left-hander in the lineup," Manjrekar said. "But Axar Patel has presented a compelling case. We’ve already seen his batting temperament in Test cricket, and he has the mindset of a proper batter."

Manjrekar also emphasized Axar’s ability to handle spin effectively, which could be crucial in Dubai, where the Champions Trophy will be played. "India has often struggled in the middle overs against spin. Since the tournament will be held in subcontinental conditions, having a batter who can confidently take on spinners is a big advantage," he added.

India’s Convincing Victory Over England

In the first ODI, England chose to bat first and posted 248 runs, with Jacob Bethell and Jos Buttler scoring fifties. India’s bowlers delivered a strong performance, with Ravindra Jadeja and debutant Harshit Rana taking three wickets each.

Chasing 249, India sealed the win in 38.4 overs, led by Shubman Gill’s brilliant 86, which earned him the Player of the Match award. Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel also chipped in with crucial half-centuries, ensuring India’s victory with ease.

With Axar Patel stepping up as a reliable middle-order option, the debate over India’s wicketkeeping role and batting order in the Champions Trophy remains wide open. Will Pant still be a part of the final XI, or has Axar done enough to secure his spot? Only time will tell.