Ranchi, Nov. 29 -- Ahead of the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, India stand-in captain KL Rahul stated that the star wicketkeeper-batter is good enough to play as a specialist batter in the side if needed.

The Indian wicketkeeper-batter Pant hasn't played 50-over cricket since August 2024. He last played an ODI match against Sri Lanka in Colombo last year.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Rahul has kept all options open for Pant, but the stand-in captain made clear that he will not don the wicketkeeping gloves if Rishabh is in the playing XI.

"Rishabh obviously missed out due to injury, and he again is somebody who has been with the team for a long time, and everyone has seen what he brings and what he can do f...