Pant gets leadership role after ODI snub
In a twist that caught many off guard, Rishabh Pant will lead Rest of India in the Irani Cup 2026 despite being omitted from the ODI squad for the upcoming West Indies series. The BCCI announced the move on September 16, handing the armband to the explosive wicketkeeper-batter as ROI prepare to face maiden Ranji Trophy winners Jammu and Kashmir.
Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in rich form in domestic cricket, has been appointed vice-captain. The assignment gives Pant a chance to lead a star-studded lineup and prove his worth ahead of future national selections.
Irani Cup 2026: Full Rest of India squad
The 15-member Rest of India squad blends experience with young talent. Alongside Pant and Sarfaraz, the lineup features several names familiar to domestic cricket followers.
Rest of India squad:
Rishabh Pant (capt, wk), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (vice-capt), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (wk), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja.
Akash Deep, who last played a competitive game in February, has been included subject to fitness clearance.
Why Pant was left out of ODIs
Pant’s exclusion from the ODI squad comes as Dhruv Jurel earned a recall to the one-day setup after last featuring during India’s tour of Australia. For over two years, India’s ODI planning has moved in a different direction, with the selectors opting for other options behind the stumps.
Despite being next in the pecking order on paper, Pant was not considered for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies starting September 27. His focus now shifts to the Irani Cup and the red-ball format, where he continues to be viewed as a key asset.
What’s at stake in Srinagar
The Irani Cup clash is set for October 1 to 5 in Srinagar, pitting Rest of India against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir. For Pant, it’s a chance to make a statement with the bat and as a leader.
For Jammu and Kashmir, it’s a historic moment—facing a powerhouse ROI side in their first-ever Irani Cup appearance after their maiden Ranji Trophy title win. Expect fireworks when these two sides meet in the season-opening domestic fixture.
FAQs
Who will captain Rest of India in Irani Cup 2026?
Rishabh Pant will lead Rest of India, with Sarfaraz Khan as vice-captain.
When and where is the Irani Cup 2026 match?
The match is scheduled from October 1 to 5 in Srinagar.thenewsmill+1
Why was Pant left out of the ODI squad?
Dhruv Jurel was recalled to the ODI setup, and selectors opted for other options despite Pant being next in line.
Who are the opponents for Rest of India?
Rest of India will face Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir.
