Why India chose Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson for Champions Trophy 2025? Sunil Gavaskar claims...

Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in on India’s decision to select Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson for the Champions Trophy 2025, pointing to Pant’s left-handed batting and superior wicket keeping as key factors. The decision was announced on January 18, along with the squad for the three-match ODI series against England.

Samson’s statistics appear stronger, with an ODI average of 56.66 compared to Pant’s 33.50. However, Samson has played only 16 ODIs, while Pant’s dynamic game and ability to change matches worked in his favour. “Pant is a left-hander and probably the better wicketkeeper,” Gavaskar told India Today. “Samson might be the better batter, but Pant’s ability to change the game gave him the edge.”

Despite a stellar 2024 in T20 cricket, where Samson scored two centuries against South Africa, he missed out on opportunities in ODIs. Gavaskar urged Samson not to feel dejected, acknowledging his achievements and expressing sympathy for his exclusion.

Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy further complicated his case. The batsman missed the tournament due to a dispute with the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA). Despite confirming his availability, he was left out after skipping a training camp, leading to criticism of KCA’s handling of the situation.

While Pant’s selection aims to bolster India’s Champions Trophy campaign, Samson’s exclusion has sparked debate among fans and experts alike.