Pant's ODI Fate Hangs: New Zealand Series Selection Nears Amid Stiff Competition

• Rishabh Pant's inclusion in the New Zealand ODI series squad is uncertain after 18 months without an ODI opportunity and a modest Vijay Hazare Trophy performance.
• A team management member reportedly dislikes Pant's 'high risk, high reward' playstyle, potentially influencing selection.
• Competition for wicketkeeper-batsman spots is fierce with Ishan Kishan, Dhruv Jurel, and first-choice KL Rahul.
• Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are expected to be rested, opening doors for Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh in bowling.
• The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins January 11 in Vadodara, with the squad announcement imminent.

Why It Matters: Rishabh Pant faces an uncertain ODI future as selectors prepare to announce the New Zealand series squad.