“If he was playing, I’d say India are the clear favourites” – Kris Srikkanth on India’s chances at the 2023 World Cup without a seasoned wicketkeeper.

With the ICC (International Cricket Council) announcing the schedule for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023, millions of Indian fans have already begun praying for team India’s success at the tournament, which will be held in October and November of this year. India, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, will be eager to win their first ICC title since the 2013 Champions Trophy. However, the absence of wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant may be India’s greatest loss in its pursuit of the championship.

Since being involved in a horrific automobile accident in December 2022, the 25-year-old has been ineligible for selection. Pant’s potential return to the team is currently unclear, and his absence could derail India’s World Cup chances. Kris Srikkanth, a former India cricketer and member of the team that won the World Cup in 1983, echoes this sentiment, stating that without Pant, he is uncertain about India’s status as tournament favourites. In addition, he stated that Rishabh Pant would be crucial for India to contemplate the marquee event.

“The true truth about Rishabh Pant is unknown. If he were playing, I would immediately assert that India are the clear favourites. But Pant’s fitness is plainly questionable. Nobody knows how physically strong he will be prior to the World Cup. I have my doubts, and so do many others, that he will play in the 2023 World Cup. Otherwise, the Rishabh Pant factor would have been crucial,” Kris Srikkanth explained to India Today.

I trust Ishan Kishan will be an excellent player: Kris Srikkanth

Additionally, Srikkanth discussed potential replacements for Pant as India’s wicketkeeper in the playing XI. Srikkant identified Ishan Kishan as a potential replacement and praised the youngster’s batting skills.

Even Ishan Kishan could be a hazardous cricketer if he makes the team. I believe Ishan Kishan will be an excellent performer. I believe players such as KL Rahul should return to the middle order. He will be outstanding. You have Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and King Kohli, who is phenomenal in this format and has been performing admirably. “I believe India has the ability to win the World Cup because he is in form,” Srikkanth said.