India has shown impressive form in T20 international cricket recently, winning the T20 World Cup 2024 and subsequent series against Sri Lanka, South Africa, and England. Sanju Samson has been a key player in this successful Indian team, often opening the batting and scoring centuries.
However, cricket analyst Aakash Chopra thinks there’s a possibility for change before the T20 World Cup 2026. Chopra believes Rishabh Pant could potentially take Samson’s place in the team.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) acquired Pant for a record-breaking 27 crore rupees in the IPL 2025 auction, and he will captain the team. Chopra highlighted this as a major opportunity for Pant.
“Rishabh Pant has a significant opportunity this season. He isn’t currently in the T20 team plans, which surprises many given his talent. This IPL season is his chance to score so many runs that his performance demands selection,” Chopra stated on his YouTube channel.
While there’s speculation about Pant opening the batting for LSG, Chopra advises against it. He believes Pant should aim to secure a spot in the batting order at No. 3 or No. 4, without directly competing with Samson for the opener’s role.
Despite being part of India’s T20I World Cup 2024 squad, Pant has been out of favor in the T20 format since then.
The next T20 World Cup in 2026, largely hosted in India, makes IPL 2025 performances crucial for player selection.
“I doubt the current T20 team is fixed for the next World Cup. T20 team selections will be very open. This IPL season will heavily influence who progresses and re-establishes their place,” Chopra added.
Pant will start his IPL 2025 campaign with LSG against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Monday, March 24.
