New Delhi: India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar has clarified the reasoning behind replacing Rishabh Pant with KL Rahul as Test vice-captain for the one-off match against Afghanistan, stressing that the move is based on experience and team balance rather than any major concern over Pant’s abilities.
The decision comes at a time when Pant has also been left out of India’s ODI squad, with selectors opting for Ishan Kishan in the 50-over format. However, Agarkar reiterated that Pant continues to remain a key figure in India’s Test setup.
Focus on Pant’s role as a Test batter
Agarkar made it clear that the selectors want Pant to concentrate on his primary strength — batting — especially in the longest format of the game. Despite recent fluctuations in form, Pant’s match-winning contributions in Test cricket remain highly valued.
“I mean, Rishabh is an incredible Test player,” Agarkar said during a virtual press conference. “We want him to become the best Test player that he has always been.”
Pant, 28, has been instrumental in several overseas Test victories for India, particularly with his aggressive and counter-attacking style. Agarkar emphasised that there are no concerns about Pant’s place in the Test team, adding that he is one of the main batters in the line-up.
While acknowledging that Pant might be looking for more runs, the chief selector maintained that his overall record in Test cricket speaks for itself.
Why KL Rahul was preferred
Explaining the leadership change, Agarkar pointed to Rahul’s prior experience as a key factor behind the decision. Rahul has previously captained India in Test matches, which gives the team a reliable backup option in case of injuries to skipper Shubman Gill.
“KL has been a Test captain before,” Agarkar noted. “He provides the necessary experience that you need in case the situation arises.”
The selectors believe that having a vice-captain with leadership experience is crucial, particularly in a format like Test cricket where on-field decisions can significantly impact the outcome of matches.
Rahul’s recent performances, including strong outings in England and against the West Indies, also contributed to the decision.
No long-term concerns over Pant’s leadership
Agarkar dismissed suggestions that Pant’s removal as vice-captain was linked to concerns about his leadership abilities. Instead, he described the move as a strategic and “futuristic” choice aimed at strengthening the team’s leadership depth.
This comes amid a challenging phase for Pant in franchise cricket, where his side Lucknow Super Giants has struggled in the Indian Premier League 2026 season. However, the selectors appear to have separated franchise performances from international responsibilities.
Changes in ODI squad and team composition
Pant’s exclusion from the ODI squad has also drawn attention, with Kishan earning a recall following strong performances in recent months, including his role in India’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign and impressive form in the IPL.
Agarkar indicated that the selectors are looking to explore different options ahead of future tournaments, particularly with conditions in upcoming overseas events in mind.
Jadeja rested, new faces get opportunities
The selection panel also made notable decisions regarding all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Jadeja has been rested for the Afghanistan Test due to a minor knee issue, while Axar has been left out of the ODI setup temporarily.
In their place, emerging players like Harsh Dubey have been given opportunities as part of a broader strategy to build bench strength.
Agarkar reiterated that Jadeja remains India’s first-choice spinner in Test cricket and that his absence is only temporary.
Updates on pacers and workload management
The selectors also addressed the status of senior pacer Mohammed Shami, who is currently not part of the Test plans due to fitness considerations. Agarkar noted that Shami is presently more suited for T20 cricket as he continues to manage his workload.
Meanwhile, domestic performer Auqib Nabi was discussed during selection meetings but did not make the final squad, despite an impressive Ranji Trophy season.
On the injury front, Jasprit Bumrah is in the process of regaining full fitness and is expected to return for India’s upcoming tour of England.
BCCI on IPL workload monitoring
Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Devajit Saikia also shed light on how player fitness is managed during the IPL. He explained that while franchises handle day-to-day fitness, the board’s medical team continues to monitor workloads and provide guidance.
However, he clarified that the BCCI does not interfere directly with franchise decisions during the tournament.
Conclusion
The decision to appoint KL Rahul as Test vice-captain reflects a tactical move by India’s selectors to prioritise experience and leadership cover, rather than a demotion based on performance. Rishabh Pant, despite losing the deputy role and his ODI spot, continues to be a vital part of India’s Test plans.
As India prepares for the Afghanistan Test and future assignments, the focus appears to be on balancing immediate needs with long-term team development, ensuring both stability and depth in leadership and performance.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)