The three-match ODI series is set to begin on November 30 in Ranchi.
After the two-match Test series, India and South Africa are all set to square off in three ODIs, starting on Sunday (November 30) in Ranchi.
On the eve of the first ODI, India’s stand-in skipper KL Rahul addressed a press conference, where he said that wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant is good enough to play as a specialist batter if needed.
Pant has played 31 ODI so far, with his last appearance coming against Sri Lanka in August 2024. Rahul, who will lead India in the absence of the injured Shubman Gill, kept all options open but made it clear that he will not don the keeping gloves if Pant features in the series opener.
“Rishabh obviously missed out due to injury, and again, he is someone who has been with the team for a long time. Everyone has seen what he brings and what he can do for the team. Like I answered them earlier, the players who are already in the team and have been performing - sometimes you just have to wait for your opportunity,” Rahul said in the pre-match presser.
“You’ll get to know tomorrow who will play - whether it’s me or him behind the stumps - but obviously, he is good enough to play as a batter as well. But if he is in the eleven, then obviously he will take the gloves, and I will be in the field,” Rahul added.
Rahul also heaped praise on Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is among the contenders to open the batting with Rohit Sharma alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gaikwad last played ODI during India’s 2023 tour of South Africa.
Gaikwad earned his place in the ODI squad on the back of stunning exploits in the One-Dayers against South Africa A, where he registered scores of 117, 68*, and 25.
“Rutu is obviously a top-class player. We’ve all seen that whatever limited opportunities he has received, he has utilised them well and shown what he can do. Unfortunately, in ODIs, the top five or six is quite settled and performing well, so you feel bad for players who don’t get enough chances. But at the same time, you’re happy that the playing group is doing well,” Rahul said.
“It’s unfortunate for those missing out, but with a few injuries, he now has an opportunity. He will get his chance at some stage. We’re looking forward to giving him that opportunity and letting him show what he can do. There’s never been a question about his skill — it’s only about the right opportunity and timing. Hopefully, this series gives him that chance,” Rahul remarked.
Having suffered a humiliating 0-2 whitewash in the Test series against South Africa, the Indian team would now be looking to turn their fortunes around in the shorter formats. The three ODIs will be followed by five T20I matches between two sides.